Flu shots are important to protect your health – get yours on campus now!
While we have adjusted to life with less stringent COVID precautions, we can’t afford to become complacent when it comes to our health. This is especially true as we approach the peak time for seasonal illnesses like influenza (‘flu’) which, aside from making you feel rotten, can lead to severe consequences such as hospitalisation and even death for vulnerable individuals.
That’s why it’s so crucial that we all roll up our sleeves once more and get vaccinated against the flu. It’s best to do this before we hit peak flu season (June to September). And it couldn’t be easier – you can get your flu shot at your on-campus Deakin Medical Centre (DMC).
Why you should get the flu shot
Symptoms of the flu can last for several weeks, and include fever, aches and pains, headache, fatigue, chills and sweats.
The flu virus is also constantly changing. Any protection provided by a previous vaccine will diminish over time, so you should get a flu shot annually.
How to get your flu shot on campus
It’s easy to book your appointment online – just choose your campus, click the green ‘book appointment’ button and select the ‘flu vaccination’ option. If you’re unable to book online, please keep checking availability as we may be waiting on stock.
Your flu vaccination is FREE if you’re:
- a domestic student living at Deakin Res (you’ll need to show your Deakin Card with a 2024 Res sticker)
- an international student (regardless of your overseas cover provider or status).
Otherwise, it’s just $20 – a small price to pay for your health and peace of mind.
If on the day of your appointment you’re not feeling well or you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, please cancel or reschedule your appointment.
You can also go to your GP or local pharmacy for a flu shot – but call ahead to check they have stock as sometimes community demand outweighs supply. (Please note that your flu vaccine is only funded by Deakin if you receive it through the DMC.)
Other precautions you can take
We’re all experts in good hygiene these days, so keep it up during flu season! Remember to:
- wash your hands regularly with soap and water after using the bathroom, and before touching or eating food
- stay at home if you feel unwell
- cough into your elbow rather than your hands – you’ll be less likely to spread germs when touching other objects
- eat a well-balanced diet, get enough sleep and keep up with your usual exercise routine during winter
- stay warm by wearing appropriate clothing outdoors.
What to do if you start to feel unwell
If you do get sick, it’s recommended that you take a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) straight away.
- If you test positive for COVID-19, it’s recommended that you isolate to avoid spreading illness.
- If you test negative for COVID-19, book a free appointment with the DMC or contact your local doctor so you can receive further treatment – please ensure you let the clinic know that you have symptoms.
If you need medical assistance at your home after hours or on weekends, call the National Home Doctor Service on 13SICK (13 74 25). (This service isn’t available in Warrnambool, so contact your local doctor for after-hours assistance.)
If you can’t get to a doctor, contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24. In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000) or go to your closest hospital emergency department.
For more information, visit our vaccinations webpage or email [email protected] and a nurse will respond during business hours.