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As outlined in the released over the summer, all members of the Â鶹ƵµÀUniversity community are expected to get an influenza (flu) vaccine as an important component of keeping campus safe and open for residential instruction.

The flu vaccine not only helps reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses, but also supports early diagnosis of COVID-19 should you be experiencing symptoms shared by the two illnesses. Keeping the rate of flu infection low in our community also helps preserve limited health care resources for the ongoing management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Exemptions are available for medical and religious exceptions, with proper documentation. Here is how those in the campus community can get vaccinated.

Information for Students

Free flu shots are available for all students at the University’s on-site clinics. Beginning Oct. 5 at the Stadium (North Campus) and Skybarn (South Campus), appointments are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. To support social distancing and reduced density, appointments are required. Learn more about how to register for an appointment.

Alternatively, you can receive your flu shot from a medical provider or pharmacy off campus and upload documentation that you received the vaccine via the Patient Portal. Please bring your Â鶹ƵµÀUniversity I.D. card and wear a face mask or covering to your flu shot appointment.

Information for Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff can obtain their flu vaccine in one of the following three ways:

1. Visit your primary care doctor. If you are a member of a Â鶹ƵµÀUniversity health plan, you and your eligible dependents may obtain a flu vaccine through your doctor’s office using your Excellus BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) ID card. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone ages 6 months or older, and a high-dose vaccine may be available to individuals ages 65 years or older.
2. Stop by a local pharmacy. For maximum flexibility, you may use either your OptumRx or your Excellus BCBS member ID card when receiving covered vaccines at a participating pharmacy at no cost to you. If you need help locating a participating pharmacy, contact the customer service team by calling the number on the back of your OptumRx or Excellus BCBS ID card.
3. Attend an on-site flu clinic. Beginning Oct. 5 and continuing throughout the month, faculty and staff members—including temporary staff—can schedule an appointment for a free flu shot Monday through Friday between 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. at either the Stadium (North Campus) or Skybarn (South Campus). To support social distancing and reduced density, appointments are required. Visit the for more information about how to make an appointment and important steps you need to take to document your vaccination or exemption. Please bring your Â鶹ƵµÀUniversity I.D. card and wear a face mask or covering to your flu shot appointment. Temporary employees may show an alternate photo ID.

With questions about the flu vaccine, students may contact the Barnes Center at The Arch at 315.443.8000, and faculty and staff may reach out to HR Shared Services at 315.443.4042 or hrservice@syr.edu.

More information about the importance of getting a flu shot for the 2020-21 flu season is available through the or the .