Vaccine Information

Last updated: 9:57 am, November 03, 2009

Student Health Service has been informed that our expected shipments of 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine have been delayed.

Complete details here.

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

For the week of October 25-31, 107 students reported influenza-like illness to Student Health Service. For October 18-24, the number was 103 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 heard the City of Philadelphia recently declared a public health emergency related to H1N1 flu.  What does this mean to Penn and Penn community members?

The City’s declaration of a public health emergency is a formal, administrative action that increases the options available to health providers in responding to the recent rise in the number of patients requiring care. We do not expect this action to have a significant effect on Student Health Service or University operations.

We continue to work closely with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help protect our community members and prevent the spread of flu in our community. As in other flu seasons, community members are encouraged to practice healthy behaviors and take preventative measures, including flu vaccination, to minimize the impact of flu in our community.

For more information on public health in Philadelphia, please visit: www.phila.gov/health.

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?

A limited supply of seasonal flu vaccine is once again available for all Penn students by appointment at Student Health. Students can call Student Health at 215-746-3535 or make an appointment online to schedule a time to receive the vaccine. Vaccine appointments will be limited to available supply, on a first-come, first-served basis. Please see the SHS website for ongoing flu immunization updates for students.

For information and updates on the seasonal vaccine program for faculty and staff, visit: http://www.hr.upenn.edu/Quality/Wellness/FluShots.aspx