With flu season around the corner and the need to better protect against COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant, now is a great time to get your annual flu vaccine and the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, Bivalent vaccine. 

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, Bivalent has been authorized by the FDA, and Pat Walker Health Center has approximately 600 doses with more being made available as the supply increases in Washington County. Currently, the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine is only available to students, faculty and staff. Flu vaccines are available to the U of A community as well as spouses and dependents.

Appointments are required to receive the flu vaccine and the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine. To schedule an appointment for either of the vaccines, go to myhealth.uark.edu. The cost for the flu vaccine is $20 for students, and $50 for faculty and staff; however, most insurances cover the cost at 100 percent. There is no cost for the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine beyond the administration fee of $30, which most insurances cover. 

Per the FDA, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, Bivalent is authorized for use to prevent COVID-19 in individuals 12 years of age and older as a single booster dose administered at least two months after either:  

• Completion of primary vaccination with any authorized or approved monovalent COVID-19 vaccine or  

• Receipt of the most recent booster dose with any authorized or approved monovalent COVID-19 vaccine. 

Per the CDC, it is strongly recommended that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated early is the best way to ensure you are protected throughout the entire flu season. 

Take Everyday Actions to Protect Against Flu … and COVID-19 

• Wash your hands often. Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve. When you use a tissue, throw it in the trash immediately. 

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. 

• Don't share food, drinks, utensils or vaping devices. 

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly. 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially if they have fever, cough and a sore throat. 

• Get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods. 

If you experience fever or flu-like symptoms, see your medical provider. To schedule an appointment at the health center, call 479-575-4451 or go to myhealth.uark.edu.