The University offers students free flu shots, but many don’t take advantage of the service included in their Student Health Fee.

Flu season lasts from October to March, said Julie Hupperich, associate director of the Student Health Center. Nearly 1,600 shots were administered to students last fall, which translates to only 5 percent of the University population.

“This amount of flu shots given is generally the same every year, but this year we have chosen to provide them at remote locations throughout the campus, including the Student Health Center, the UREC, the Student Union and the new Business Education Complex,” Hupperich said.

The decision to allow more locations is the initiative of a new annual program called Flu Shots on the Geaux. The 2-year-old program was successful in certain areas, but overall, the same number of shots were still administered this year.

Even with Flu Shots on the Geaux, many students say they weren’t aware of the free shots offered.

“I didn’t know about the free shots at the health center, but I knew pharmacies offered free ones,” said Lauren Smith, wildlife ecology junior. “Also, it’s very hard to get an appointment at the health center.”

Possible solutions to the problem, according to students, could be more signs and increased email notification.

“I know that I check my email multiple times a day, so emailing would be good for awareness,” said Reenie Lively, communication studies sophomore.

The flu season usually peaks in the months of January and February. However, Hupperich said it is best to prepare for the season by receiving a flu shot in advance. Each flu shot is effective for six months, so it would be better for students to get their shots now to avoid the possibility of getting the flu.