Free Flu Shots for Students, Mobile Clinics Part of Annual Campaign

With flu season just around the corner, San Diego State University has launched its annual “Say Boo to the Flu” campaign that includes free flu shots for students at Calpulli Center and mobile flu clinics around campus.

The free flu vaccine is available during October, while supplies last. Last year, more than 1,200 students were vaccinated, and Student Health Services (SHS) anticipates higher demand this year. The effort is a partnership between SHS in the Division of Student Affairs and the County of San Diego.   

Also, at the Say Boo to the Flu mobile clinic on Wednesday, Oct. 17, undergraduate students 23 years of age and under are able to obtain a free MenB vaccination, while supplies last. Watch for additional MenB opportunities to be advertised around campus. Students may also make an appointment for a vaccination by calling 619-594-4325. Flu vaccinations by appointment are free through October. Free MenB vaccinations are at the mobile clinics. However, charges will apply to MenB vaccinations by appointment.  

The four scheduled mobile flu clinics will be staffed by SHS employees and nursing students. Free flu shots and free hand-sanitizing wipes will be available for SDSU students. 

Dates for the mobile flu clinics:

• Oct. 9, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Aztec Recreation Center
• Oct. 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Tula Community Center (MenB vaccinations will also be offered; please bring your immunization records, or a photo of the record)
• Oct. 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Love Library
• Oct. 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union

Students can visit one of the mobile clinics or make an appointment at the Calpulli Center by visiting healtheconnect.sdsu.edu or calling 619-594-4325.

Darrell Hess, director of Student Health Services, urged students to get vaccinated, not only to prevent illness that interferes with academics and other activities but also to prevent spreading illness to others.

“When you get a flu vaccine, you may also protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness,” he said. “And flu vaccination has also been shown in several studies to reduce the severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that flu killed 80,000 Americans last year and sent 900,000 to the hospital—the deadliest influenza season in years.

Although free vaccinations are not available for faculty and staff, SHS officials urge them to obtain the flu vaccine through their health-care providers.