With the approach of flu season, University Health Services (UHS) has started offering vaccination clinics to combat the spread of the virus. According to Maureen Keown, director of University Health Services, the number of Fordham students receiving the flu vaccination has increased in the last three years following the introduction and spread of COVID-19.

In the 2020-21 academic year, UHS administered 327 flu vaccinations on campus. The following year, 2021-22, UHS administered a total of 884 flu vaccines on campus. Keown said so far this year, 174 students have received the vaccine. According to Keown, “COVID-19 has changed how multiple different viruses such as the common cold and flu have changed in their virulence.”

Additionally, “Outreach programs and having scheduled flu clinics at both campuses have increased the number of students receiving the vaccine.” she said.

Many Fordham students say they that getting the flu vaccine is important. Kylie Phillips, GSB ’25, said she will get the flu shot.
“The pandemic hasn’t really positively or negatively affected my willingness to get the flu shot. I’ve always been pro-shot,” said Phillips.

Thomas Huitfeldt, FCRH ’25, felt similarly, affirming that he also plans on receiving the flu shot.

He also added, “The pandemic has definitely positively affected my willingness to get the flu shot.”

Huitfeldt and other students state they understand the importance of receiving vaccinations, now more than ever, in a COVID-19 world.

Keown also took time to stress the importance of the flu shot, encouraging students to receive the vaccine even if they do not do so at UHS. Many pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy, offer free flu shots available by both appointment and walk-in.
However, receiving the flu vaccine through UHS is not free. The vaccination costs $35, which is charged to the students’ Bursar bill. It can be reimbursed upon students’ submission of a receipt to their medical insurance. Keown also warned about a possible rise in the number of cases this year, saying, “UHS anticipates an increase in flu cases this fall and winter due to relaxation of mandates and mask requirements that COVID-19 had originally brought to our world. During the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years, the number of flu cases decreased due to mask wearing, social distancing, increased hand washing and other measures taken by people to stay healthy.”

According to an email sent on Sept. 15, UHS plans to offer more clinics as the semester progresses. Students can call ahead to make an appointment.