AU's Student Health Center anticipated an influx of flu shot recipients this winter. The Health Center ordered 4,500 vaccines this winter, said Director of the Health Center Dan Bruey. Historically, the health center has ordered 800-1,000 seasonal flu vaccines, he said.
AU's health center has distributed approximately 4,000 flu shots to students, staff and faculty this year, according to Bruey. The vaccines are free for students and AU employees.
"We currently have a limited supply of seasonal flu vaccine remaining," Bruey said.
Some students received the free vaccine based on past medical history.
Other students saw the free vaccines as a way to ensure they would not get the flu.
Many students may incorrectly believe the H1N1 vaccine will protect them against the seasonal flu. The H1N1 vaccine does not defend against the seasonal flu, Bruey said.
—MEGHAN SWEENEY
