Keep Yourself Well By Getting Your Flu Shot

October 18, 2022

Dear Colleagues,

Join us in keeping yourself and those around you well by getting your flu shot today (it’s easy, safe, and most importantly, prevents severe illness).  

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 is safe and effective, and cannot cause flu illness or make you sick. The CDC recommends that almost everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine every year.  

This year’s flu season is predicted to be particularly severe. Because of this, we urge all of you to take advantage of the many opportunities to get your flu shot before flu season, which is expected to start this month and peak between December and February.  

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.

Flu Vaccines are Widely Available  

Flu shots are already available at local pharmacies and through your primary care provider. Please visit the State of New Jersey’s flu webpage to find a vaccine provider near you. Through your local pharmacy or primary care provider, you can get your flu shot at the same time as your COVID-19 booster. We encourage both a flu vaccine and covid booster to ensure you stay healthy all season. 

Occupational Health also offers 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! 

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