The Flu Vaccine: Another Line of Defense

By Ellyn Sellers-Selin, October 1, 2021

A message from Dr. Ellyn Sellers-Selin, medical services director.

As flu season approaches, it is time to protect yourself by getting a flu shot!

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. Symptoms include fever, cough, body aches, sore throat, headache, fatigue, and chills. These symptoms come on suddenly and are very similar to COVID-19 symptoms. They can vary from mild to severe. Worrisome warning signs in adults may include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, or dizziness or confusion.

Everyone six months of age or older should be vaccinated every year against the flu. This is especially important this year with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Flu vaccination is the single best way to prevent seasonal flu each year. The flu virus typically circulates throughout the winter months, often increasing in October, peaking between December and February, but may last in our community until May. It is recommended that you receive your flu shot in September or October if possible. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective.

"The POD is an important part of the Ithaca College emergency preparedness plan. This once-a-year event is a convenient opportunity for Ithaca College community members to receive a free flu shot in a minimal amount of time, while supplies last."

Dr. Ellyn Sellers-Selin, medical services director

The flu vaccine can keep you from getting sick with the flu and can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalizations. Studies have shown that those vaccinated for the flu who do get sick, have a reduction in severity of illness. Flu vaccination is associated with lower rates of cardiac events associated with heart disease, and reduced hospitalizations for diabetes and chronic lung disease. It also protects pregnant people during and after pregnancy. Getting vaccinated may also protect those around you who are more vulnerable to serious influenza illness, such as older people, young children, and those with certain chronic health conditions.

Ithaca College will be holding our annual flu vaccine point of dispensing (POD) for all faculty, staff and students. The POD will take place Tuesday, October 12 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the A&E Center. Students are welcome to attend anytime during this time period that is convenient for them.

The POD is an important part of the Ithaca College emergency preparedness plan. This once-a-year event is a convenient opportunity for Ithaca College community members to receive a free flu shot in a minimal amount of time, while supplies last. There is a schedule based on faculty and staff locations, however if the scheduled time for your building is not convenient, please feel free to come in anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Faculty and staff, this is your opportunity to receive your flu shot. Please dress in clothing that allows you to receive your flu shot in the upper arm. Watch Intercom for upcoming detailed information.

Please Note: high dose flu shots are not administered at the POD. Anyone with special concerns should discuss with their personal physician what vaccine is most appropriate for them. Additionally, students under 18 should schedule their flu shot at the Hammond Health Center.

Common side effects of the flu shot include soreness, redness, and swelling where the shot was given, as well as mild headache, fever, nausea, muscle achiness and fatigue. Severe reactions are uncommon, however, let your health care provider know if you have a history of allergy or severe allergic reaction to influenza vaccine or any part of the flu vaccine. Very rarely, the flu vaccine can be associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome.

Let’s continue to help keep our community healthy by participating in our annual flu POD.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ellyn Sellers-Selin
Medical Services Director