Employees still have opportunities to get their free flu shots

Employees who didn't have an opportunity to attend one of the recent flu shot clinics on campus still have options -- a final flu shot event will be held 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday (Nov. 8) in Stewart Center, Room 306. There is a limited quantity of vaccines, which  will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Flu shots will be provided at no charge to all benefits-eligible Purdue faculty and staff -- including those who have opted out of the Purdue medical plans -- on a walk-in basis during the event. No appointment is needed. Spouses, same-sex domestic partners (SSDPs) and adult dependents over age 18 who are covered on a Purdue medical plan are also eligible to get a flu shot at no charge during this event.

In addition, beginning Wednesday (Nov. 9), vaccines will be available at the Center for Healthy Living on Purdue's West Lafayette campus on a walk-in basis or at any time during a scheduled appointment with a provider, pharmacist or health coach. Pediatric flu shots also are still available for children 6 months and older covered on a Purdue medical plan, but require an appointment at the center. Everyone coming for a flu shot should bring their Purdue University ID (PUID) card or their Anthem medical plan ID card.

The Center for Healthy Living will be administering to individuals over age 18 the Novartis Fluvirin, trivalent, pre-filled syringe injectable (trace preservative - thimerosal). Children 6 months to 4 years of age will receive the Sanofi Fluzone quadrivalent (injectable form only) and children 4 years and older will receive the Novartis Fluvirin, trivalent, pre-filled syringe injectable (trace preservative - thimerosal). Those needing an alternative vaccine should see their provider.

Two additional ways to get a flu shot at no charge

If the on-campus option doesn't work out, there are other options. Employees, spouses/SSDPs and children who are covered on a Purdue medical plan can get their free flu shot through either of the following ways:

* Go to their health care provider: All Purdue medical plans cover seasonal flu shots for covered employees and family members covered on a Purdue medical plan.

* Go to a participating retail pharmacy: Those getting a flu shot through a retail location will need to show their Anthem ID card to ensure all flu shots are billed through their Anthem medical plan.

Employees who have questions about flu shot coverage may contact Human Resources at 49-42222 or hr@purdue.edu.