Flu Shots Available at TechCare

Given the severity and complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, getting a flu shot could be one of the most important decisions you make this year.  Green Clinic's TechCare now offers the influenza vaccine to the students, faculty, staff and the Louisiana Tech community.   There are many myths surrounding the flu shots as to whether to take it or not, so here are just a few important facts about the urgency of getting your flu shot.

What is the "the flu"?

Flu is a highly contagious upper respiratory illness caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever*                    
• Chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny/stuffy nose
• Muscle/body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue

*It is important to note that not everyone diagnosed with the flu will experience fever.

For more information about the flu visit CDC's Key Facts About Infuenza(Flu) and CDC's Who Needs a Flu Vaccine.

When is the flu season?

In the United States, generally, flu season occurs during the fall and winter months. The flu will circulate year round, however, activity tends to peak between December and February.  According to the CDC, September and October are the best times to get a flu vaccine.

Why do you need a flu shot?

The flu shot is a vaccine designed to prevent the current projected strains of the influenza virus. The vaccine helps to prepare your body for exposure to the virus so if exposed, it is prepared to protect against the onset of the flu.  Your primary care physician should always be consulted before receiving the vaccination. There are many benefits of getting a flu vaccine:

• The flu vaccine can prevent you from becoming ill with the flu and lessen the spread of the flu through herd immunity.
• The flu vaccine is an especially important preventative measure for people with chronic health conditions.
• The flu vaccine can reduce the severity of illness in those who take the vaccine but still get sick.

For more information on how the flu vaccine works visit the CDC.

How do you know if it’s flu or COVID-19?

The flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Because the symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu are so similar, it may be hard to tell the difference based on symptoms alone.  Testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis because of the similarity between the two illnesses. For more information on how the flu compares to COVID-19 visit the CDC.

Where can you get a flu shot?

Before getting a flu shot, check with your primary care physician to make sure it is safe for you to receive the vaccine. If you are unable to visit your primary care physician for the flu shot, Green Clinic’s TechCare will have flu shots available.  Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred to ensure availability of vaccine.  TechCare’s pricing information is listed below:

• TechCare location – Lambright Sports and Wellness Center
• Cost with most insurance: Free
• Cost without insurance: $47
• Hours: New patient – 7:30-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m., Established patient – 7:30-11 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m.
• Walk-ins are welcome or you may schedule an appointment. Call the clinic when you arrive in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines.
• Mask or face-covering must be worn at all times while at clinic.