Vaccine Information

Last updated: 01:34 pm, November 24, 2009

How many Penn students have reported having flu-like symptoms?

For the week of November 15-21, 69 students reported influenza-like illness to Student Health Service. For November 8-15, the number was 100 students.

The cases of influenza-like illness at Penn have been consistent with reports nationally that the illness ranges from mild to severe, and most people who have been sick have recovered without needing medical treatment. Following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, Student Health Service tests for the H1N1 virus only in specific circumstances such as patients who are at risk for complications with flu.

I have heard there are problems with students getting the seasonal flu vaccine. What is happening with scheduling seasonal flu vaccine appointments at Student Health Service?

Student Health has exhausted its current supply of seasonal flu vaccine. We expect to receive additional  seasonal vaccine in the coming weeks. However, there continue to be nationwide reports of delays in shipping of flu vaccine. Students should visit this webpage often for ongoing flu immunization updates.

Media Coverage

Volunteers distributed more than 3,000 doses of H1N1 vaccine to students last Friday in what was described as a “ridiculously efficient” H1N1 vaccination clinic.

read the full story here »