The Stockton Unified School District’s annual Fall flu clinic will take place Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Franklin High School Wellness Center from 8:30 A.M to 2 P.M. 

The clinic, which is provided in partnership with the San Joaquin County Public Health Department, is open to all students and staff ages two and up. Those interested in receiving the flu vaccine should pick up and complete a form from the FHS health office. Forms need to be returned to the health office before visiting the clinic. 

The flu clinic will offer the flu vaccine injection for all ages and flu vaccine nasal mist for anyone under 59 years old. 

The clinic benefits the whole school community. Students and staff members who receive the flu vaccine will bolster overall herd immunity at FHS since, according to the Centers for Disease Control, fewer people getting infected lowers overall transmission rates. 

Additionally, being vaccinated can help protect against more serious illnesses that can develop in those who contract the flu. According to FHS School Nurse Susan Yang, “Bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, [and] sinus infections” are all potential consequences of catching the flu. 

Yang added that contracting the flu, “could also worsen more severe medical conditions [and] chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.” 

Getting vaccinated can also help those who still contract the flu to recover quicker, which Yang said helps students, in particular, to miss fewer days of class and avoid missing out on activities both inside and outside of school. 

Information and flu vaccine consent forms are also available on the SUSD health department’s website.