September 15, 2009
 

Dear Colleagues:

Getting a flu vaccination is the single best way of preventing the flu. Last year, more than 2,400 faculty and staff received a free flu shot at UM, and with flu season fast approaching, it is vital that you consider getting your free seasonal flu vaccination this year.

The flu vaccine is free to all UM faculty and staff. You can receive seasonal flu vaccine shots at various locations beginning this week. To view the vaccination schedule, click here. No appointment is necessary. Simply download and complete the flu shot consent form and bring the completed form with you for your shot. For additional information, e-mail schen@miami.edu or click here. Free flu shots will also be available during the Open Enrollment Benefits Fair starting the week of October 19. Benefits Open Enrollment will take place October 19 through November 6. Details about 2010 benefits will be released in the coming weeks.

The flu can cause illness that may lead to serious health complications. These include bacterial pneumonia, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, and diabetes. Children ages 6 months to 19 years old, pregnant women, people age 50 and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and people who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including health care workers, are highly recommended to get the seasonal flu vaccination.

Help UM fight the flu. We want to do everything we can to keep you healthy. Help us spread the word about the importance of seasonal flu vaccinations. Download the following educational materials to post in your common office areas: Help UM Fight the Flu, How to Protect Yourself, and Wash Your Hands – The Right Way. Free posters, brochures, e-cards, and informational videos and pod casts are also available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site to help you learn more about preventing seasonal flu. You may also log on to www.miami.edu/ulearn to view the Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza course.

The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against the H1N1 influenza virus. A separate vaccine is being developed for H1N1; it is expected to be available in late fall, and due to a limited supply it will only be available to those most at risk, based on criteria from the CDC. To view more information about the H1N1 (swine) flu, click here.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our wonderful University. Please send me your suggestions and comments at dshalala@miami.edu. I appreciate your assistance helping UM fight the flu.