Oct

Don’t let the flu bug you!

The Occupational Health Services Division’s Seasonal Flu FastVax Program for Mall employees will take place next week. This popular offering, now in its fourth year, is a quick and efficient way to get vaccinated. Please remember that this year’s vaccine provides protection against typical seasonal influenza as well as against H1N1 influenza all in a single dose. All employees and Smithsonian eligible persons are strongly encouraged to get their free flu shot.

Please see Lee Tolbert or Yvette Barnes in the Office of Safety, Health and Environmental Management for a FastVax pass. The office is located on the seventh floor of Capital Gallery on Maryland Ave. S.W. between 6th and 7th streets. Women who are pregnant should check with their doctors before getting a shot. Informed consent will be signed at the time of vaccination with the Occupational Health Services health care provider.

FastVax vaccinations will be available in room 3111 of the Quad according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, Oct. 12: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 13: 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 14 : 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 15: 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Influenza virus cell

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine protects against the three main flu strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the flu season. The vaccine can protect you from getting sick from these three viruses or it can make your illness milder if you get a different flu virus.