All members of the Mason community are strongly encouraged to get their flu shots this season to protect themselves, their loved ones, and our community.
Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The flu vaccine will protect you and our community against influenza (flu) and also save health care resources for patients with COVID-19.
“Students who live in close quarters, such as residential halls, may be at higher risk for influenza and COVID-19,” said Dr. Lisa Park, executive director of Student Health Services. “COVID-19 symptoms are very similar to flu-like symptoms, and thus you will need to isolate or quarantine until proven otherwise.”
Mason is offering its annual Winter Wellness flu shot clinic from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, in Dewberry Hall in the Johnson Center on the Fairfax Campus.
“The flu shot clinic is an important employee benefit, and we want as many people as possible to take advantage of it,” said Lester L. Arnold, vice president of Human Resources and Payroll.
Because of physical distancing requirements, appointments are mandatory and must be booked in advance. Book your appointment here.
“We are encouraging employees to fill those slots and see this as another opportunity for Patriots to ‘Do Their Part,’ ” Arnold added.
The shots are free for those with COVA health care or other insurances that cover the vaccination. Faculty and staff who are not covered by state insurance can pay $30 through Student Health Services. Those insured with Kaiser Permanente can check the Kaiser Permanente website for a list of flu shot providers.
Additional precautions are in place at this year’s flu clinic. All patients must fill out their paperwork in advance to reduce the need for the use of pens and tables onsite, patients are required to show proof of the green Mason COVID Health Check, patients must wear a face covering, and staff will clean surfaces after each appointment.
Students should call Student Health at 703-993-2135 to schedule an appointment for a flu shot at the Fairfax clinic or for Winter Wellness. Shots are $30 for students with Mason student ID, or free with the Aetna Student Health insurance plan. When additional opportunities for flu shots on campus or in the community are available, they will be shared. For more information about the flu shot with Student Health Services, visit here.