Flu vaccines are available now to students and employees through Student Health Services and Clemson Rural Health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine each year, ideally during the months of September and October so the body has time to develop antibodies and provide protection against flu viruses before they begin circulating at high levels.
Why get vaccinated?
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Every flu season is different, and influenza infection can affect people differently. Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu. An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the chances of getting seasonal flu and spreading it to others. When more people are vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through the community. Flu vaccination can also reduce the severity of illness in people who get the vaccine but still get sick (CDC).
Vaccine for students
The seasonal flu vaccine is offered at Redfern Health Center. Students can schedule an appointment online in MyHealth-e or by calling the pharmacy: 864-656-3562. Most flu vaccines given in Redfern’s pharmacy will be covered by insurance at no cost to the student. Students should try to bring their pharmacy insurance card or upload it in MyHealth-e. If not covered, the flu vaccine costs $49. This can be paid at the time of service or added to your student account. Acceptable forms of payment include check, debit, credit, Apple Pay, Health Savings Account and Tiger Stripe. Students can also pay for their flu vaccine online in MyHealth-e. The vaccine is covered 100% for students who have the Clemson University Student Health Insurance Plan when received at Redfern or through any Preferred Provider.
Vaccine for employees
The Joseph F. Sullivan Center, located on the first floor of Edwards Hall, is offering the flu vaccine to employees at no cost to those insured under the State Health Insurance Plan (PEBA). Pop-up flu clinics are planned at various University locations most Tuesdays and every Friday during the month of October, no appointment needed. See the events calendar for walk-up clinic locations, dates and times.
Employees can also schedule an appointment to receive a flu vaccine by calling 864-656-3076 or by using their existing Clemson Rural Health MyChart portal.
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Learn more about the flu on the Student Health Services website.