Dear Students and Lehigh Families,
As our community continues to follow COVID health and safety protocols, there are also other illnesses that can impact the well-being and health of students. Influenza is one example, and flu season is once again upon us. Health professionals and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with few exceptions.
We strongly encourage all individuals to get the flu shot this year as an important preventative measure—especially as it is possible to become infected with flu viruses and the viruses that cause COVID-19 at the same time, which can cause significant health complications. Health professionals anticipate that the impact of the flu may be more serious this year compared to last year as people are interacting with others more and attending more in-person activities and events.
On Tuesday, October 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Lehigh has partnered with Walgreens to host a flu shot clinic for students on campus at the STEPS tent outdoors.
Make an appointment: go.lehigh.edu/flushot21
Remember to Bring:
1. Your Lehigh ID
2. Your Insurance Card; and
3. A Mask*
*We ask that you please wear a mask since you will be in close proximity to someone administering your shot and around others in the STEPS tent space.
Cost: Free (covered by insurance)
As a thank you for participating, Lehigh Dining will provide vouchers for a free hot or iced coffee or tea redeemable at The Grind @FML or Baker's Junction.
Frequently Asked Questions-
Do I need a flu shot if I’ve received the COVID vaccine?
Yes. The COVID vaccine is not designed to protect against the flu, and vice versa—the flu shot is not designed to protect against COVID. As shared by the CDC, there are different types of flu viruses, and they continually change. The composition of the flu shot is reviewed annually and updated to match the current flu viruses circulating.
Should I get the flu shot if I am getting my COVID vaccination or a booster?
Yes. There is no unique or different guidance for individuals who are also getting vaccinated for COVID. It is safe to get both. However, the CDC in the past has recommended providing a separation of 14 days between COVID vaccines and other vaccines. If you have questions, consult with your medical provider or the Health and Wellness Center.
What is the difference between flu and COVID-19?
The CDC says: “Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and seasonal flu (most often just called “flu”) is caused by infection with one of many influenza viruses that spread annually among people.
“Because some symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, people may need to be tested to tell what virus is causing their illness. People can be infected with both a flu virus and the virus that causes COVID-19 at the same time. In general, COVID-19 seems to spread more easily than flu and causes more serious illnesses in some people. Compared with people who have flu infections, people who have COVID-19 can take longer to show symptoms and be contagious for longer.”
For additional information and answers to frequently asked questions, we encourage you to visit the CDC’s FAQ page, which compares COVID-19 and flu, given the best available and current information.
Sincerely,
Lehigh University Health and Wellness Center
Health Advancement & Prevention Strategies Office