FLU ACTIVITY UPDATE - January 15, 2013: The Student Health Service has already had three confirmed cases of influenza in just the first two days of the spring 2013 semester, and that is on top of the 5-6 we had at the end of last semester. None of this is surprising given what is happening elsewhere. As of last week, Connecticut has recorded over 1600 cases of flu, 41 states presently have widespread outbreaks, and flu-related health emergencies have been declared in several locations including Boston and New York. At this point, the 2012-13 flu season appears to be in full swing and is shaping up to be one of the worst in years. We don't know what to expect down the road or even the rest of this week although a potential bright spot is that the outbreak seems to have slowed in the southeast U.S. which was the first region to experience widespread cases. Still, given the severity of the current situation, we recommend people prepare for the worst by getting a flu vaccine, and we urge those who develop flu- like symptoms (fever plus cough and/or bad body aches/weakness and/or sore throat) to stay home until the fever is gone and symptoms lessen. Likewise, the Student Health Service strongly encourages students diagnosed by us with the flu, especially residential ones, to leave campus and go home, if possible, until better. For more ways to reduce your risk of catching the flu bug, or things to do if you come down with the flu, check out our tip sheets at the links below.

FLU SHOT UPDATE - January 15, 2013:SUPPLIES ARE DWINDLING! Because of the current widespread outbreak of influenza, flu shots are going fast. Most flu shot providers, including pharmacies, have exhausted their supplies. According to one flu vaccine maker we spoke with, demand for re-supplies is very high so delays in restocking flu shot providers are likely. The influenza vaccine is strongly recommended for all persons over 6 months of age. As was the case last year, flu shots, when available, are provided to state employees, state retirees, or dependents of state employees at no cost through the Caremark Program. However, you must go to a pharmacy or doctor's office participating in this state program to receive the shot. For a list of participating pharmacies, go to http://www.osc.ct.gov/empret/fluvacpgm/ctpharmlist/index.html. The Student Health Service, which does not participate in this program, is down to its last two doses of flu vaccine as of today. The cost is $15. Please download and complete the vaccine consent, then bring it with you when you come in to be inoculated. Any Questions? Call 860-465-5263. Flu vaccine consent.