Flu season is upon us, and Green River has hosted multiple vaccine days to help students be prepared. At only $25 for flu and $45 for pneumonia, there are still plenty of shots to go around for faculty, staff, students and the general public.
As of yet, most recipients have been staff and faculty, "Most likely, believe students are young enough to recover… Or they don't think they'll be sick," said Julie French, the Health Service Coordinator.
French goes on to warn, "As long as we have contact with someone, there are unlimited possibilities to get sick anywhere we go." French advises students to wash their hands and gargle after going out. Also, staying home when ill and letting your instructors know are important in order to stop the spread of the virus to the entire campus.
Students were skeptical regarding shots, most likely from horrific memories of vaccines when we were younger. Flu shots are generally less painful than say, a hepatitis B vaccine, simply because there is less going in the arm.
Student Chika Kawashima was at the health center, "I will take the shot…Its convenient and the price is cheap," said Kawashima.
"I'm interested in it, and [I'm] planning to take it," said Ted Hanrahan, another student at GRCC. Hanrahan hasn't gotten a flu vaccine for a few years, but is playing it safe this year in partially because of swine flu concerns.
For those who haven't gotten down to the health center yet, there's still time. The last day to receive a flu shot on campus is October 27th from 10 AM – 2 PM in the Baker room of the LC. Be prepared by bringing current photo identification and, if possible, an insurance card.
If you aren't able to make it on the 27th, many local pharmacies including Safeway and Walgreens have it.
For students not able to get this shot on the 27th, many local pharmacies such as Safeway and Walgreens have both flu and pneumonia shots available. Check with your local pharmacy for dates and times.
Flu and pneumonia shots available on campus
Published: Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Updated: Wednesday, July 21, 2010 18:07
is a member of the 
Be the first to comment on this article!