Baruch distributes the H1N1 shot

On Wednesday, Dec. 2nd, the Baruch College Student Health Center offered a vaccination clinic to administer the H1N1 flu vaccine and the MMR vaccine to Baruch students. Both vaccines were offered free of charge and came on a first come, first serve basis.

"I think it's serious, but it's New York — no one wears masks here," said Erang Song, a Baruch student who visited the clinic to get the free vaccine in fear that he may get H1N1 from a close friend who had the virus.

Although most students came for the H1N1 vaccine, there were some who visited for a regular check-up. One student was surprised by how many people went to the clinic. "I didn't know that the clinic was giving it out for free, I was wondering why there were so many people."

Some Baruch students said they would not be taking the shot because they felt it was new and wanted to see how effective it would be.

People six months to 24 years of age are eligible to receive the shot.

In addition, those who are 25 to 65 years old and have an underlying health condition — such as asthma, diabetes, chronic heart and lung conditions, kidney failure, or a weakened immune system — can also get the vaccine, as these ailments may make the flu more dangerous. Finally, pregnant women, health workers, and those who live with or care for children less than 6 months should also get the vaccine.

"If you belong to any of these priority groups, and you don't have access to H1N1 vaccine through a primary health care provider, we urge you to take advantage of this opportunity," said New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley in a press release.

The clinic advises those who are thinking of getting the vaccine to first consult their physician if they are exhibiting flu-like symptoms the day they get the vaccine. These would include fever, fatigue, sore throat or muscle aches.

Furthermore, individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to seasonal flu vaccines and those are who are taking chemotherapy should consult their health providers.

In the last few months, the NYC Health Department has been conducting free H1N1 vaccination clinics all over the five boroughs.

The city has also activated the NYC FluLine to help New Yorkers decide if they need medical care for symptoms that may have signs of influenza.

According to Health and Wellness Program Coordinator Renee Nilsen, approximately 50 students received the H1N1 vaccine on the first day the clinic administer the shot and the Student Health Center had approximately 100 vaccines available for students. 

"If student demand for the vaccine increases, more may be available depending on the supply availability of the NYC Department of Health," said Nilsen in an email interview. "The remaining doses of the vaccine will be available free to students who fit the CDC priority guidelines by appointment until the supply is exhausted."