Students can now receive a flu shot from the Colorado State University Health Network.

Flu shots are available on campus at the Hartshorn Health Center. No appointment is necessary, and students can go anytime during normal operating hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday between 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

The flu shots cost $35 out of pocket, but are covered by most healthcare plans and the student health insurance plan according to the CSU Health Network.

The CSU Health Network administered more that 1,600 flu shots to students last year.

Dr. Kathlene Waller, Medical Director at CSU Health Network, warned of the highly contagious flu virus, specifically for college students, due to close proximity with other students that can have the virus.

Students infected by the virus can fall behind on their classwork due to flu symptoms including: fever, cough, sore throat, headaches, fatigue, muscle or body aches and runny or stuffy nose.

Teens and young adults are more prone to flu complications, some that can be life threatening. Flu complications include: pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections and more serious complications.

Students are encouraged to help prevent the spread the flu virus and other illnesses with some simple practices like avoiding close contact with people who are sick, avoiding touching their eyes, nose and mouths and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.

For more information, contact CSU Health Network at 970-491-7121.

Collegian news reporter Savannah Hoag can be reached online at news@collegian.com or via Twitter @sav_hoag.