Get Your Flu Shot: It's Safe, Easy and Prevents Illness

September 27, 2023

Dear Rutgers Colleagues,

As flu season approaches early this year, we are happy to share that getting your flu shot is easy, safe, and most importantly, will protect you from severe illness. In fact, these flu vaccine regimens have been used safely for decades.

As many of you know, flu vaccines are the most effective way to prevent the flu, lessen its symptoms, and reduce its spread. Flu vaccination not only helps us individually stay well, but also protects the most vulnerable in our communities. Research has proven that the flu vaccine cannot cause flu illness or make you sick, and the CDC recommends that almost everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine every year.

Because of these facts, we urge all of you to take advantage of the many opportunities to get your flu shot.

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 by November 30 and exemption requests must be submitted by November 1. Remember, you can also find the vaccine portal on the MyRutgers healthcare tab, along with other important health resources.

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.

Flu Vaccines 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.

Let’s continue to work together to keep our Rutgers University campuses safe, healthy, and vibrant by getting your flu shot.

Wishing you good health.

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

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