November 4, 2021

Employees urged to get a flu shot before Thanksgiving

Whether you’re traveling to visit family or hosting your own Thanksgiving dinner, one thing you don’t want to skip is getting your flu shot.

By receiving your annual flu vaccine, you’re not only protecting yourself but also protecting your loved ones. The flu is highly contagious, and the virus can spread to others up to 6 feet away. A person can also transmit the flu one day before they show signs of symptoms and up to seven days after contracting the illness.

“Flu is a respiratory illness that impacts millions of Americans each year. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, especially among young children, adults 65 years and older, and adults living with a chronic health condition,” said Lori Rolando, MD, MPH, director of Occupational Health Clinic (OHC).  “However, in addition to helping to prevent infection, flu vaccinations are also shown to reduce your risk of serious illness, hospitalization and even death. Not only are you protecting yourself, but you are also reducing the risk for others who are more susceptible to illness.” 

Before you pack up for the holiday season, be sure to visit one of the following locations or utilize one of the OHC programs to receive your flu shot.

  • Visit an Occupational Health Clinic location.
    • Medical Arts Building, 6th Floor on Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
    • One Hundred Oaks on Thursdays, 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. in VPEC room 21100.
    • Walk-in services are provided for both locations. No appointments are necessary.
  • For Vanderbilt Wilson County, Vanderbilt Bedford, and Vanderbilt Tullahoma Harton, please reach out to your respective Occupational Health resource at your location.
  • Utilize the Peer Vaccination Program, which enables eligible staff members to vaccinate their coworkers.
  • Take advantage of our “OHC Comes to You” program to request a departmental onsite event.
  • For full program details, including how to report an outside flu vaccine or request an exemption, visit OHC’s Employee Influenza Vaccine Program website. Remember that the compliance deadline for VUMC employees is Dec. 1.

It’s important to protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu this year. Be sure to get your flu shot before visiting with friends and family in November.