In an effort to contain the influenza outbreak on campus, the SMU Memorial Health Center will be offering flu shots to students.

According to a recent press release, the H1N1 vaccine is still not available to students, but SMU’s health center is expected to get the vaccination later this fall. 

Health officials warn the influenza season can begin as early as October and last through March. Getting the vaccination can help calm flu outbreaks and prevent students from catching the flu virus. The common flu vaccine will not protect students against the H1N1 virus.

For students with Aetna insurance, shots are $5. All other university students, faculty and staff can receive the shot for $25.

To shorten your wait at the flu clinics, officials are asking students to complete a seasonal flu vaccine form on the school’s Web site and bring it with them, as well as their SMU ID.

Flu vaccine clinics will be on Wednesday from 2-7 p.m. at the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.