Penn’s Student Health Service is running low on seasonal flu vaccine due to nationwide delays in manufacturing and shipping, according to Matt Waller, director of Public Affairs and Communications for the Office of the Vice Provost of University Life.
Limited quantities of the nasal mist version of this year’s seasonal flu vaccine are available by appointment at SHS on a first-come, first serve basis, Waller said.
SHS also has some injectable seasonal flu vaccine, but is reserving it for students who are medically prohibited from taking the nasal mist vaccine.
A vaccine specific to H1N1 is expected to become available sometime in October, Waller said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended that all persons under the age of 24 receive both the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine if possible.
Students with flu-like symptoms — including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue — are urged to remain at home and call the SHS flu help line at 215-746-3535 for further information.
