The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic requires that we stay vigilant in adhering to the University’s protocols that protect the University of Miami community. The four pillars—vaccinating, testing and tracking, cleaning and disinfecting, and protecting personal space—continue to serve as the key to our long-term success nearly 20 months into this health crisis.
Therefore, all students, faculty, and staff on all campuses will be required to receive the seasonal flu vaccine again this fall. The flu shot continues to be a University requirement for a few reasons.
First, we are still navigating an unpredictable global pandemic. Receiving the flu vaccine ensures that our health care resources are available to treat those who might need care. Symptoms of the flu and coronavirus can be similar in the early stages, making detection and treatment challenging. While the COVID-19 vaccines do not protect against the flu, the flu vaccine does not prevent against COVID related illnesses. In other words, no one loses if they are inoculated against both the COVID-19 virus and influenza.
Secondly, we know that around 90 million Americans remain unvaccinated for COVID-19. We understand that some of you may need to get both vaccines at the same time, which is safe according to the CDC. The CDC has not seen any indications of adverse impacts from receiving both vaccines concurrently.
Finally, we don’t know what the flu season will look like this year, but based on early detections of influenza within our community, we may see an increase in flu activity this year. Last year, likely because of masking and social distancing, we experienced a mild flu season. However, we cannot assume that will be the case again in 2021. We simply cannot risk severe illness, and the safest way to protect one another is to receive both vaccinations.
Flu vaccines are available now, by appointment. Additional information, including flu shot locations, available flu shots, exemption details, and frequently asked questions can be found online at coronavirus.miami.edu/flushot.
Let’s not slow the pace toward the end of this marathon. Please continue to work together to stay safe and healthy.
Roy E. Weiss, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor of Medicine
Chair, Department of Medicine
Chief Medical Officer for COVID-19 |
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