SXU Places First in Flu Vaccination Challenge
Saint Xavier University (SXU) has placed first in the 2023-2024 Alana Yaksich National College/University Flu Vaccination Challenge for small schools. Alana's Foundation is a non-profit organization and was founded in 2009 in memory of Alana Yaksich. Though she was a healthy girl with no underlying conditions, she died at the age of 5 in February 2003 just 48 hours after developing flu symptoms.
Alana's Foundation outreach works to engage the community with presentations, media coverage and programs focused on the importance of early flu vaccinations. The vaccination challenge is part of the Alana's Foundation mission, which is to prevent deaths caused by influenza, a vaccine-preventable disease, and provide support for families whose child has died from any illness. The competition helps to spread awareness and serves as a tool to help colleges and universities nationwide to increase their flu vaccination rates for their students and communities.
"We are so excited to have won the challenge! This is our sixth year applying for this important grant, and we love making flu vaccines accessible to all our students," said Kathy Rohan, director of clinical operations.
"Challenges like these bring attention to the importance of flu vaccination for younger-aged populations. Even though the risk of serious complications is lower, young adults can still get sick with influenza and have to miss five days of work or class. Young adults can also pass the illness on to more vulnerable populations, like grandparents," added Katie Schlee, director of clinical services.
It's not too late to get a flu shot! Influenza has not yet peaked in Illinois, so it's the perfect time to call the SXU Health Center at 773-298-3712 to make an appointment.
Some Common Misconceptions About the Flu
Myth: The flu shot can give me the flu.
Fact: Flu shots have inactivated viruses, so they cannot cause infection. Vaccines are not proven to prevent the flu, but if you get the vaccine, you are about 60% less likely to need treatment.
Myth: I should wait to get vaccinated so I'm covered through the end of the season.
Fact: People should get vaccinated as soon as flu shots are available as it takes about two weeks to develop antibodies.
To protect against the flu, it's important to wash hands regularly; avoid touching the face, eyes nose and mouth; and stay home if not feeling well. The Health Center will continue to provide flu vaccines through the entire flu season and is open to the community year-round.