Free Flu Vaccinations

All faculty and staff are eligible for one free flu vaccine on-campus each year. Family members who are not employees are not eligible to receive a flu vaccine on-campus. UNI health insurance plans cover the cost of one flu vaccine each year. To ensure coverage check with your provider if they accept your insurance and present your Wellmark ID at the time of service.

Iowa law allows pharmacies to provide a flu vaccine for all individuals six years and older, without a prescription. This provides a convenient way for individuals to get themselves and family members vaccinated. UNI Health Plans pay for 100% of flu vaccinations.

All Children under six years will need an appointment with their health care provider, or a prescription from their health care provider, to receive the flu vaccine. All individuals age 65 and older should request a high dose vaccine. Most pharmacies provide the high dose vaccine but it is recommended to call in advance.

The following is a list (non-exhaustive) of local to UNI pharmacies that provide walk-in flu shots. Flu shots are available while supplies last and it is recommended to call in advance to verify availability.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. The illness can range from mild to severe. The best method of prevention is a flu vaccine. It is recommended that a new vaccine is received each year. Every Fall UNI offers free flu vaccines for employees while supplies last. For more information on the flu vaccine and preventing the flu visit the CDC website.

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Nasal congestion
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Possible vomiting and diarrhea

* Symptoms may vary in severity and not everyone with the flu may have all symptoms.

The flu is believed to be spread from droplets made when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. A person may also contract the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it, and then touching their own mouth, eyes, or nose.

What are the best ways to prevent the flu?

• Receive the flu vaccine.
• Wash your hands frequently and practice good hygiene.
• Carry alcohol based hand sanitizer for times when hand washing isn't an option.
• Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid contact with people who are ill.
• Use a sanitizer weekly on surfaces frequently used (i.e. tables, desks, key boards, door handles, remotes, phones).
• Stay home if you may have the flu or feel ill.

• Wet hands with clean, warm water, and apply soap.
• Lather by rubbing hands together, and covering all surfaces and under finger nails.
• Continue rubbing hands together for 20-30 seconds -- sing the ABC's in your head.
• Thoroughly rinse hands under warm water.
• Use paper towels or hand dryers to dry hands.
• If unable to wash hands, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

Wellmark Resources

• Say No to Germs

Posters

• Stop the Spread of Flu in the Workplace
• Cold and Flu Prevention
• CDC: About Handwashing
• Sick With Flu? Know What To Do!