De Anza’s Student Health Services’ annual flu shot clinic has transitioned from a walk-in clinic, to a drive-thru this year, in order to follow COVID-19 safety protocol. 

“The clinic will run on an appointment basis, we’re asking students to virtually sign off their consent and read a little bit about the vaccine information,” said Clinic nurse Amelia Kauweloa. “This can all be done from their portal.”

The health center is giving vaccinations for free to students and $18 for faculty.

I requested an appointment by email on Oct. 21 and was able to get an appointment for the next day at 9 a.m. 

The procedure when I got to Parking Lot A was straightforward: check in and show your I.D., drive up to the nurse to get your shot, drive to the 15 minute wait area and then leave.

All of the nurses were very helpful and kind, and the shot hardly hurt at all.

“I think the flu shot is especially important right now due to its support of herd immunity,” said Kauweloa. “The flu kills people, and it will continue to kill people even though we have a vaccine, so we need to practice a universal caution and providing flu shots as a public service is the idea behind this herd immunity.”

The CDC advises anyone who is able to receive a flu shot to get one, to prepare for the predicted second wave of the pandemic.

“I celebrate someone’s autonomy and their right to choose. You asked me my opinion and I think you should just get your flu shot,” Kauweloa said.