Dear UMBC Community,
This year more than ever, we are encouraging everyone in our community to get a flu vaccination. We know that with the holidays approaching, many are considering whether they can visit family and/or travel while staying safe. With both COVID-19 and influenza expected to peak this winter, we want to encourage you to remain vigilant and safe by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, limiting your exposure to others, and getting a flu shot. In addition to keeping you healthy, getting a vaccination will help reduce the number of preventable hospitalizations related to flu so that medical professionals can provide life-saving care to those who need it most.
University Health Services (UHS) has a limited supply of seasonal flu vaccines. Flu shots are available by appointment only at UHS on the ground floor of Erickson Hall for students, faculty, and staff approved to be on campus during the fall semester. Call UHS at 410-455-2542 to schedule your appointment. In addition, you can visit the UHS flu shot page for off-campus locations in the Catonsville-Arbutus area offering flu shots. Most health insurance plans will cover the cost of the flu shot; be sure to have your health insurance card with you. Remember to call ahead to ensure the location you plan to visit has vaccines available.
Influenza Prevention
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends flu vaccines this year and every year. Please take time to familiarize yourself with this CDC guidance on flu prevention and treatment, including this helpful information about who needs a vaccine and when to get it.
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It is possible to have both COVID-19 and influenza. Getting a flu vaccine helps to protect you, the UMBC community, and our broader community from the spread of seasonal flu.
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The prevention methods for influenza and COVID-19 are similar and include frequent handwashing, social distancing, and limiting your exposure to others.
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If you get sick with flu symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care. If you are approved to study, live, or work on campus, please report your symptoms on the Daily Symptom Tracking form.
- If you have been diagnosed with the flu and develop shortness of breath or severe fatigue, call your healthcare provider or go to an emergency room.
University Health Services is here to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact us at 410- 455-2542 or uhs@umbc.edu for more information.
Be well!
Bruce Herman, Director, University Health Services and Counseling Center
