For Your Health
For Your Health

News from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences

Remember your flu shot

Administrators at the UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences are encouraging all SMHS faculty, staff, and students to get influenza shots this autumn.

Flu vaccinations are important for two reasons. First, influenza is a potentially fatal virus, although at a much lesser rate than COVID-19, especially for persons with weak or otherwise compromised immune systems. Second, since COVID-19 and the flu may have similar symptoms, the anticipated yearly flu epidemic risks clogging the health care system and overwhelming our already overburdened coronavirus testing system.

In addition to concerns that the hospital may be overwhelmed if we have a “twindemic” of COVID-19 and the flu, COVID-19 testing may be reduced for those who need it or results may be delayed if testing for influenza substantially increases the need for certain testing resources.

Flu shots are available by appointment from your health provider or for UND students, faculty and staff at the Student Health Office.