Every year, October surprises us with its pleasant charm. In these cooler temperatures, we no longer have to fry in the walk between classes, and we can pursue Halloween costumes with pumpkin spice lattes in hand. But October brings more than just cozy sweaters, Halloween fun and pumpkin-flavored everything; it also brings the dreaded flu season.
Between the months of October and May, we’re all prey. According to our neighbors at the CDC, the flu vaccine is your best bet for protection against the malicious combination of fever, chills, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue known as influenza.
If you came back from fall break without a Band-Aid below your shoulder, chances are, you’re in the market for a flu shot. Luckily, Emory makes it simple for students to find the most convenient option when it comes to staying healthy.
CVS Emory Village/Emory Point:
- Your typical routine in Emory Village includes a burrito from Chipotle and a froyo Yogli Mogli; add a stop at CVS for a flu shot! Located in the MinuteClinic, flu shots are available without appointments. While the store is open 24/7, flu shots are not. Best part? Flu shots come with a 20% off shopping pass! Ask the pharmacist for your shot, and you’ll be out of the store in minutes, unless of course, you take a well-deserved shopping detour. If Emory Point is more convenient, don’t sweat – the same applies, including the coupon.
Emory Student Health & Counseling Services:
- Now until the end of the semester, students can pop over to the second floor of the Student Health Center (1525 Clifton Rd) for their vaccines. No need to schedule an appointment, either—simply stop by Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 3 pm. All shots are covered completely by the Emory/Aetna insurance plan, but bring your Emory ID and insurance card for verification.
DUC:
- Finally, students can DUC it this flu season at the two vaccination sessions. Stop by the DUC on Friday, November 15 or Friday, December 6 from 10 am to 2 pm. Unfortunately, these days do not coincide with the beloved “Omelet Days” in the DUC, so treat yourself to some Dunkin Donuts after.
Flu shots may seem like a drag now, but the prick of a needle is nothing compared to the agony the flu could potentially put you through. After all, the only thing more miserable than having the flu is having the flu in college.