Flu on the Rise, Get Your Flu Shot to Prevent Illness

December 10, 2024

Dear Rutgers University colleagues,

As flu season begins to take hold in New Jersey, cases are already on the rise. It is not too late to get your flu shot, if you have not done so already. Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and readily available. They help prevent illness, reduce symptoms, and minimize the spread of the virus. The flu shot also protects those who are most vulnerable, including young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic conditions.

If you have not received your flu vaccine yet this year, we encourage you to make a plan to get your flu shot as soon as possible (details below). Many locations offer the option to receive your COVID vaccine at the same time, making it even more convenient to protect yourself this season.

Let’s work together to stay healthy. Thank you for doing your part to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and our Rutgers community.

Wishing you good health,

Vicente Gracias, MD 
Senior Vice Chancellor for Clinical Affairs, Rutgers Health
Vice President for Health Affairs, Rutgers University  

Brian L. Strom, MD, MPH  
Chancellor, Rutgers Health
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Rutgers University

Flu Shots are Widely Available

Flu shots are already available at local pharmacies and through your primary care provider. You can drop by or schedule a pharmacy visit. In addition, Occupational Health will offer free flu vaccines to faculty and staff with a valid RU ID. Visit the Occupational Health Flu Immunization webpage to review vaccine availability and clinic dates and locations.

It may take two weeks after your shot to develop the protective antibodies, so don’t delay and get your shot today.

Covered Individuals Policy Reminder

Remember, all Covered Individuals are required to provide proof of seasonal flu vaccination unless they have a Rutgers-approved exemption. Please review Policy 100.3.1 to determine if this requirement applies to you. Any Covered Individual who fails to comply with this policy may be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment. Flu vaccination documentation must be uploaded to the Influenza Vaccine Portal. Remember, you can also find the vaccine portal on myRutgers in the Health and Patient Care apps.

For employees who are not Covered Individuals, while flu shots are not required, they are encouraged to keep you safe and healthy, as well as the people around you.