Get An Annual Flu Shot

Getting an annual flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu.

Getting vaccinated is especially important for people who are at high risk of infection, such as students (who live and study in crowded areas), healthcare workers, those who smoke, those over 50, children under 2 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems (e.g.,due to recent illness). The CDC currently recommends flu vaccination for everyone.

Since the strain of the flu virus changes every year, annual vaccines are needed. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in your body that protect you against the flu, so make plans to get vaccinated early in the fall, before flu season begins.

You may make an appointment with Health Services to receive a flu shot. Call 848-932-7402 or use the Online Patient Portal, http://nbstudenthealthportal.rutgers.edu

View the CDC’s flu fact sheet and Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) here.

Know the Signs and Symptoms

It’s easy to mistake a cold for the flu. Both can cause a sore throat, coughing, and congestion. The common cold can make you feel run down, but the flu can make it difficult for you to even get out of bed. Another big difference is that colds have a gradual onset of symptoms, while the flu shows a sudden onset of symptoms.

The flu can also bring:

  • High-grade fever (over 100 degrees F)
  • Body aches
  • Chills
  • Possible vomiting and/or diarrhea

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention, from Rutgers Health Services, your home doctor, or a local hospital.

  • Fever is over 100 degrees F for more than 2–3 days
  • Symptoms persist for more than 10 days
  • Breathing is difficult and painful
  • Swallowing fluids is difficult or painful

How to Prepare for the Flu Vaccination Clinic

Remember to bring your RUID and insurance card!

Consent Form

Download, fill out, and print the Consent Form prior to the clinic to save time. Don’t forget to bring the completed consent form to the clinic!

Vaccine Information Sheet

Read the Vaccination Information Sheet prior to their appointment.

Read over the questions that will be asked

  • Are you sick today?
  • Do you have any long-term health problems (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease?)
  • Do you have any allergies to medication, food, a vaccine component, or latex?
  • Have you ever had a reaction after receiving a vaccine (including fainting or feeling dizzy)?
  • Have you had a seizure or nervous system disorder? (including Guillian-Barre syndrome, a condition that causes paralysis)
  • Are you pregnant, or is there a chance you could become pregnant in the next month?

Vaccine consent statement:

  • I have read the Vaccine Information Statement. I have had sufficient opportunity to ask questions which have been answered to my satisfaction. I understand the benefits and risks of the vaccine and I request that I be immunized with this vaccine.

Fast Track Line

Bring your completed paperwork to the clinic and save time! Print out and complete these 3 forms.

Student Demographic/Insurance Form

Informed Consent for Vaccination

Vaccine Information Sheet