Flu Vaccine Clinic for NIH’ers Begins Oct. 2
The Office of Research Services and the Clinical Center will provide free flu shots to staff with a valid NIH identification badge from Oct. 2 through Nov. 9.
Getting immunized each year provides the best protection against influenza throughout flu season. By getting the flu shot, health care personnel can also reduce the risk of exposing patients to the influenza virus. All staff who have patient contact, including employees and contractors, are required to get the flu vaccine each year. For all other NIH staff, immunization with the flu vaccine is encouraged, but not required.
Opening early in the morning, the flu clinic will be located on the east side of the 7th floor of the Clinical Research Center. Starting Oct. 11, there will also be off-campus sites providing free flu shots. Shady Grove, Bayview, Poolesville, Neuroscience Center, Fishers Lane and Rockledge locations are included on the schedule.
There are several clinics offered for those who work nights and weekends. Clinic hours are scheduled on early mornings, evenings and Saturdays at the CRC 7th Floor Atrium. Visit www.ors.od.nih.gov/flu/Pages/vaccine_sched.aspx for specific dates, times and directions.
The vaccine is administered in the upper arm, so wear short sleeves or clothing that allows for easy exposure of your upper arm/shoulder.
If you would like the high-dose flu vaccine for workers who are 65 or older, just notify the nurse. To learn more about the high-dose flu shot, visit http://go.usa.gov/PAUY.
It takes about 2 weeks after immunization for antibodies to develop and provide protection against influenza virus infection. In the meantime, you are still at risk for getting the flu. That’s why it’s better to get immunized early in the fall, before the flu season really gets under way.
For more information, visit foiltheflu.nih.gov or call (301) 496-2209.