By Sophie Quiñones, Staff Writer
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging people to get their flu vaccinations this year. With the ongoing threat of COVID-19, the CDC is asking people to do their part to keep themselves and others safe during the upcoming flu season. The university partnered with Walgreens to bring a flu Vaccine Clinic to both the Post and Brooklyn campuses on Oct. 7 and 8, 2020.
Some students have been adamant about getting their flu shots this year due to COVID.
“I cannot allow for my immune system to get compromised this year and then get COVID on top of it,” said Steele Whitney, a junior acting major, “ COVID made it so much more urgent to get it done.”
According to Whitney, the process of getting a flu shot this year felt very safe. There was no huge difference in this process besides the added use of masks. Whitney received a flu shot at a local CVS.
“I did feel safe getting my flu shot. There were people around, but I think it was worth the risk,” Whitney said, “ I think I still see flu shots as important, if anything, I am thankful to have a vaccine and wish we had one for COVID.”
Other students, such as junior international relations major, Matthew Sporrer aren’t sure if COVID-19 should be a factor in whether or not you get vaccinated.
“I think flu shots are important for the general population to get every year, but I don’t know if they’re specifically more important this year,” Sporrer said. “I just haven’t looked into the science.”
With the upcoming flu season, some students like Gabby Lavoie, a junior musical theatre major, are feeling an increased amount of pressure and anxiety about staying safe and healthy during this time.
“I am afraid of the flu now during this coronavirus time. I have heard the flu is going to be way harsher this year and I want to stay healthy,” Lavoie said, “[COVID] made me more scared of getting sick in general and it was the first time I got the shot in at least 2 years.”
“COVID has made me more aware of how my health affects those around me. I realize that being healthy isn’t just for me but also my community” Lavoie said.
Lavoie believes that the Coronavirus pandemic has caused them to become more aware of not only their health but the health of the community around them. Lavoie, like many students, feels that it is important to continue to do everything that they can to keep themselves safe.
Be First to Comment