Update (November 29): We indicated there would be a flu shot clinic on campus on Dec. 12. This is incorrect. The flu shot clinics were held previously in the semester. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Despite the many great aspects of the winter months, there’s always one downside to the colder, damper weather: cold and flu season. With finals and holidays fast approaching, it’s important to stay healthy during this time of year.
One of the biggest threats to one’s health during the winter months is the flu, and one of the most effective ways to avoid contracting this illness is to get a flu shot. California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) is hosting a free flu shot clinic on Dec. 12 in the Tanimura and Antle Family Library from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This clinic is being offered through the Monterey County Health Department and the Visiting Nurse Association and is available to students, staff, faculty and the surrounding community.
Most students plan on getting their flu shot as a preventative measure. First year student, Grace Douglas, shares the popular idea that she’ll “definitely” be getting one to “keep her healthy.”
Students are especially concerned because many individuals on campus have already gotten sick, motivating others to do what they can to stay healthy. For example, first year student, Celeste Perez, intends on getting a getting a flu shot “so [she] doesn’t get the flu, since a lot of people [she knows] have been getting the flu lately.”
Some students have already taken advantage of previous flu shot clinics held at CSUMB. First year student, Gabe Mercado, got a flu shot early on, saying, “You don’t see me getting sick. It’s not that bad, just get it.”
For students who decide not to get a flu shot, there are alternative ways to prevent getting sick. It’s important to wash your hands frequently, especially when you have been out in public. Diet is also important: eating foods rich in certain vitamins can help keep your immune system healthy. However, the most critical aspect of staying healthy is getting enough sleep, especially during finals. Not getting enough sleep is damaging to your immune system and makes your body extremely susceptible to illnesses, such as the flu.
