Erica Siaulinski, Staff Writer
It’s that time of the year. Flu season, once again. In preparation, SUNY Oneonta held a vaccine clinic in partnership with Dougherty Pharmacy on September 30th and October 1st. Offering flu shots to students on campus with just their insurance information.
According to Statista.com, 36.5% of college undergraduate students report having been treated for or were diagnosed with a cold, a virus or other respiratory issues in the past 12 months (as of the Fall semester, 2025). 14.2% say they had been diagnosed or treated for the flu or flu-like symptoms, and 2.9% recorded being diagnosed or treated for pneumonia.
The CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends getting an annual flu vaccine, for everyone starting at 6 months old. “Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine, ideally by the end of October but people should continue to get vaccinated as long as flu viruses pose a threat to their community.” (CDC) “Flu vaccination also has been shown to reduce the severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick.” (CDC) Flu shots have been proven to also reduce the flu itself. Doctor’s visits and even hospitalization due to influenza complications.
The CDC also offers advice on how to further prevent both catching the flu, and spreading it. “Avoid close contact with people who are sick.” “If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. For flu, CDC recommends that people stay home, for at least 24 hours, until both are true: your symptoms are getting better overall, and you have not had fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication).” “These include taking steps for cleaner air and hygiene like cleaning frequently touched surfaces.” (CDC) The CDC also recommends frequently washing hands, and making sure to avoid rubbing your eyes, mouth and face as this is the easiest way for germs to spread.
The CDC says the best way to treat the flu is to take any antiviral (different from antibiotics) drugs that doctors prescribe to prevent further development of the virus. As well as resting, and keeping hydrated. “People may be infected with influenza virus and have respiratory symptoms without a fever. Visit the CDC’s website to find out what to do if you get sick with the flu. Learn about some of the similarities and differences between flu and COVID-19, and the difference between flu and the common cold.” (CDC)
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