USC Offered Flu Vaccines Amid Rising LA Wastewater Levels

The university is providing vaccinations as local influenza wastewater levels reach December benchmarks.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Allergies

USC Offered Flu Vaccines Amid Rising LA Wastewater Levels

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Do you plan to get a flu vaccination this season to avoid missing class or work?

USC Student Health has ramped up its vaccination program as Los Angeles reports early surges in influenza wastewater levels. Students and staff are being encouraged to get vaccinated at campus clinics to mitigate transmission risks as the semester progresses.

Why it matters

High population density within campus housing and classrooms increases the risk of viral transmission, making widespread vaccination essential before the busy academic finals period. Health officials anticipate that the current flu season will reach its peak activity between December and January.

Vaccine costs are set at $20 for students using non-SHIP insurance plans, while students on SHIP/Aetna plans and USC employees using health plans receive the shot at no cost. Potential side effects from the inactivated virus vaccine typically last 24 to 48 hours.

The players

USC Student Health

This department manages healthcare services, wellness programs, and vaccination distribution for the University of Southern California community.

The details

Vaccinations are available via walk-in appointments at the Engemann Student Health Center and the Eric Cohen Student Health Center. The university is also hosting weekly vaccination events at the Trojan Farmers Market to improve campus accessibility.

Wednesdays mark the weekly vaccination events at the Trojan Farmers Market.
Nov. 4 is the final day scheduled for vaccination events at the Trojan Farmers Market.
December and January are the months when health officials anticipate the flu season will peak.

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The Big Picture

This program aligns with the data-driven methodology of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Wastewater Surveillance System. USC is using localized wastewater signals to trigger public health interventions before traditional clinical symptoms emerge in the broader population.

Students should check their insurance coverage through Aetna or other providers to determine if they qualify for no-cost vaccinations. All students are also encouraged to pick up free COVID-19 and influenza antigen tests distributed by the university to help monitor their health.

The takeaway

Proactive vaccination remains the most effective strategy for students to avoid health-related disruptions during the critical finals season. Campus residents should utilize current clinic availability to protect themselves and their peers from seasonal respiratory illnesses.