Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine or booster and the flu shot close together?

According the CDC, it is safe to get any of the COVID vaccines and the flu shot simultaneously. So far research has shown that the immune response and potential side effects are similar when the COVID-19 vaccine is given alone or alongside another vaccine.

How can I tell if I have the flu or COVID? What should I do?

The flu and COVID-19 can cause similar symptoms, including fever, aches, chill, fatigue, sore throat and headaches. It’s important if you begin to feel these symptoms to get tested as soon as you can, wear a mask and stay physically-distanced from others. The best way to prevent COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated.

Where can I get a flu shot on campus?

All students, faculty and staff are eligible to receive their flu shot from Student Health Services’ on-campus clinic. This clinic is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Center for Health and Well-Being.  Shedule an appointments via MyHealthSpace.

When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?

It’s recommended to come in for your flu shot before the end of October. In addition to reducing your risk of flu illness, you will also be protecting people around you who are at risk for serious complications.

 

Can a flu vaccine give me the flu?

Flu vaccines cannot cause the flu because they do not contain live, infectious viruses.  Flu vaccines that delivered as shots are made by using 1) proteins from a virus, or 2) killed (inactivated) viruses.  Some short-term symptoms may occur as side-effects and may seem similar to flu symptoms, but are usually mild and very short-lived compared to an active flu infection.

 

For more information, please visit the CDC's Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions.