UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — University Health Services (UHS) encourages Penn State students to stay current on COVID-19 shots and receive the updated vaccine.
Students are encouraged to get vaccinated or boosted as an updated vaccine provides enhanced protection against new variants. The updated vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "should work well against currently circulating variants of COVID-19, including BA.2.86, and continue to be the best way to protect yourself against severe disease."
As supply permits, students at University Park can schedule an appointment to receive the Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 booster via myUHS or by calling 814-865-4UHS (4847). Students at Commonwealth Campus locations are encouraged to contact their on-campus health service, if applicable, to inquire about the vaccine. The vaccine is available to anyone 18 years and older.
"Receiving this year's updated COVID-19 vaccine is a safe and effective way to decrease the severity of your symptoms if you do test positive for COVID-19 and decreases the chance of contracting COVID-19," said Dr. Rebecca Simcik, UHS medical director. "Receiving this vaccine either from UHS or in the community is an easy way to keep your semester plans running smoothly. Less time feeling sick means more time being able to participate in class and spending time with friends. Scheduling a vaccine appointment now will mean less disrupted Thanksgiving and winter break plans later in the semester."
Students who cannot receive a vaccine through UHS can visit a vaccine location in the community. For vaccine locations, enter your zip code on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccines.gov website to find nearby providers.
Penn State strongly encourages all students to get vaccinated and boosted for COVID-19 as soon as possible and to share their vaccination status with the University.
"Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take to help protect yourself, your family, and your community," said Dr. Bruce Kraut, UHS senior director.
Additional vaccine resources can be found on the UHS COVID-19 vaccinations webpage.