For the second year in a row, the Academy is offering the flu vaccine to all students, faculty and staff. The school urges members of the community to receive vaccination in accordance with recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC): that individuals be immunized against the common flu to encourage a healthier population during flu season, and to lessen the chance that a more serious flu could be confused with the common flu.

Dr. Myra Citrin, Exeter's medical director, states that 36,000-40,000 Americans die from influenza each year. "This is tragic, because influenza is, in large part, a preventable disease," she says. "The influenza vaccine is effective and safe, and current recommendations from the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend the vaccine for all persons who want to reduce the risk of contracting influenza or transmitting it to others."

You can receive your flu shot in Phelps Science Center (Grainger Auditorium) during one of the following all-day clinics:
 
Wednesday, October 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday, October 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 28, from noon to 5:00 p.m.
 
Flu shots are free to the PEA community, including faculty family and their children over 4 years old. Just show up – no reservations are necessary.

Last year, over 650 students received flu shots. Parental permission was required for all students. Almost 500 staff, faculty and faculty family members also received shots. Lamont Health and Wellness Center is hoping to beat that number this year. The Center's able staff will be on hand to take the "ouch!" out of the experience.