Issue date: 10/6/08 Section: Money/Health

It happens every year around this time. The weather changes, temperatures drop and people start feeling ill. Flu season is approaching.

Joanne Mellema, a physician at Student Health Services, encourages students to get a flu vaccination and said there will be five different clinics with vaccines available around campus this month and into early November. The first clinic will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 20 in the Hilltop lounge.

Students are also able to come to Student Health Services and receive a flu shot at an individual time, she said. The price of the vaccine is a flat fee of $15 for students and $20 for faculty and staff.

The flu vaccine will be much more effective this year, said associate professor of biology Sasha Showsh.

"Last year's vaccine was 40 percent effective, now it is 80 percent or more effective," he said.

All students are encouraged to get a flu shot, but students who are fighting an infection or debilitating disease, such as mono, are especially encouraged, Showsh said.

Mellema also said that people with asthma, diabetes, kidney or liver disease should strongly consider getting vaccinated.

Junior Mary Beth Bautch said she encourages her friends to get flu shots.

"I make sure they're aware that (flu shots) are available through Student Health Services," Bautch said.

She believes some young people think the flu shot is only necessary for old people and young kids.

"There's that invincibility factor, too - that I'm not going to get sick," Bautch said.

Showsh said health companies are now advertising for everyone to get vaccinated this year.

The flu vaccine is important for students living in residence halls because it can spread more quickly because of the crowded conditions, Mellema said.

Bautch said that anytime someone lives with a large group of people there are going to be more exposures. Having 30 to 40 people sharing a bathroom can be an issue, and not many people sanitize things in their room, she added.

"I think cleanliness is a big factor," Bautch said. "If you're sick, you're spreading it because you don't think to wash your doorknob. Sanitizing things once a week can help prevent the flu, colds, all sorts of things."

Bautch also said hand washing is an important step to avoid getting sick.

"Make sure you wash your hands for 20 seconds with lukewarm water," she said. "Getting enough sleep is important, as well as proper nutrition and exercise."

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