H1N1 Vaccine Offered to Students

Next Tuesday and Wednesday, UMW students under the age of 24 will be able to get H1N1 vaccinations free of charge in the Great Hall.

The Health Center has reserved Meeting Room 1 in the Great Hall Tuesday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and again on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Both the nasal and shot forms of the vaccination will be available.  Medical personnel will determine which form would be most effective based on screening questions before the vaccination.  All students who desire to receive the vaccination must answer these questions.

The vaccines will also be available in the health center following the two clinic times.  However, supplies will be limited.

“We received 1,000 doses from the Virginia Department of Health … 500 Flumist (the nasal spray) and 500 shots,” said University Physician Dr. Thomas Riley.

The Health Center will be distributing the vaccinations in Lee Hall, room 112, on Thursday, Dec. 10 and Friday, Dec. 11, during the times of 10 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m.

The vaccine will only be available to students until more are received.

“As the supply improves we will consider faculty and staff,” Riley said.

So far this semester, there have been 231 reported students who exhibited flu-like symptoms.

Riley said that of the reported flu cases, the majority has been mild to moderate, and all students are encouraged to get the vaccine.

“At this time, students are our highest priority as younger people are catching the flu at a much faster rate than older people,” he said.

Any students with questions regarding the vaccine or the flu are encouraged to contact the Student Health Center by calling 540-654-1040 or e-mailing healthcenter@umw.edu. Students can also contact the 24-hour flu line at 540-741-2500.