The flu vaccine is the single best way to reduce the chances of infection during flu season. To help people get vaccinated, Oakland University’s Graham Health Center (GHC) will host “Fluapalooza” from noon – 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 8 in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge. GHC health professionals will administer the FluMist (nasal spray) vaccine.
Fluapalooza is part of the Campus Flu Challenge coordinated through the Michigan Department of Community Health. The initiative strives to increase flu vaccination rates of college-aged young adults through a friendly competition among 14 participating colleges and universities in Michigan. Students will be asked to self-report their vaccination status through an online collection tool. The institution with the highest flu vaccination percentage (based on undergraduate student population) will be presented with an award from the Michigan Department of Community Health.
“The most important thing is just to get vaccinated,” said GHC Director Nancy Jansen. “Flu vaccines are a safe and effective way to stay well.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists several groups who are especially vulnerable to the flu, including children aged six months and older, pregnant women, people aged 50 and older, people with compromised immune systems or certain chronic health conditions, and people who live or work with others facing high risk of flu complications.
In addition to getting vaccinated, other healthy habits include hand-washing, covering one’s cough and avoiding close contact to prevent the spread of germs. A nutritious diet, proper rest and physical activity can also reduce the risk of getting sick.
For more information on health services or receiving a flu shot at Graham Health Center, call (248) 370-2341 or visit the website at oakland.edu/ghc. The Center also offers an affordable health insurance plan for OU students who don’t have access to family- or work-provided coverage. To learn more, visit the GHC insurance plan site.