As summer’s warmth gives way to the crisp air of autumn, the annual push to protect communities from influenza is already underway. Across the country, clinics, universities, and hospitals are rolling out a variety of options for the 2025 flu season, making it easier than ever to get vaccinated before the virus begins its seasonal surge.
On September 18, 2025, Vanderbilt University made a timely announcement detailing the many ways its employees and students can receive their annual flu shots. According to the university’s official communication, the much-anticipated VUMC Flulapalooza vaccine event has been deferred for this year. But that’s hardly a reason to skip the shot—Vanderbilt has ensured there are still plenty of convenient alternatives.
For Vanderbilt employees, the Occupational Health Clinic at the Medical Arts Building is offering walk-in flu shots Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. That’s not all: a series of OHC Vaccination Stations will pop up in Langford Auditorium on multiple dates, including September 24 and 25, October 1, 2, 16, 17, 30, and 31, with varying hours to accommodate busy schedules. Employees can also head to Vanderbilt Health Walk-In Clinics, Vanderbilt Health at Walgreens, or simply schedule a visit with their primary care provider.
Students aren’t left out, either. The Student Health Center will be open for flu shots Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no appointment necessary—just a valid student ID. For those who can’t make it during regular hours, the SHC after-hours clinic will be available on Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday, October 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Why the annual rush? The answer lies in the nature of the flu virus itself. As Vanderbilt’s announcement reminds us, "Flu viruses evolve quickly, and the flu vaccine is updated to target the most likely strains for the upcoming season." That means last year’s shot may not protect you this time around—making it essential to get the updated vaccine every single year. And don’t wait: flu vaccines take about two weeks to provide full protection, so experts recommend getting the shot by the end of October to stay ahead of the season’s peak.
Meanwhile, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and in parts of Delaware, local healthcare providers are taking a community-focused approach. As reported by The Daily Times on September 17, TidalHealth and Atlantic General Hospital are hosting a robust series of free flu clinics, including convenient drive-thru events. These clinics are open to the public, though age requirements and parental consent for minors vary by provider.
TidalHealth, based in Salisbury, Maryland, has been running annual fall flu clinics since 1994. This year, anyone age 8 and up can get a free trivalent flu vaccine at their events—no physician’s order needed. Minors under 18 do need a parent or legal guardian to sign consent. Notably, high-dose "senior" flu shots aren’t available at these particular clinics. Key upcoming dates include a drive-thru event at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury on September 26, another at TidalHealth McCready Pavilion in Crisfield on October 4, and several more at community centers, churches, and festivals throughout October.
Atlantic General Hospital is also stepping up, offering free flu clinics to anyone age 12 and up in Worcester County. As with TidalHealth, minors need parental consent. Unlike TidalHealth, Atlantic General will offer both trivalent and high-dose “senior” flu shots at most events, unless otherwise noted. Their clinics range from drive-thru events at the John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center on September 30 to community gatherings at churches, fire companies, and medical centers throughout October. For those seeking more information, Population Health Manager Alyce Marzola and TidalHealth’s Community Wellness department are available for questions and guidance.
The importance of these widespread efforts can’t be overstated. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of six months, but it’s especially crucial for those over 65, individuals with heart or lung disorders, and anyone at high risk for complications, such as people with diabetes. According to The Daily Times, the shot is designed to protect against three different flu viruses, providing broad coverage against the strains expected to circulate this season.
Drive-thru clinics, in particular, have become a hallmark of post-pandemic public health efforts—offering a safe, efficient, and accessible way to get vaccinated without even leaving your car. TidalHealth’s and Atlantic General’s embrace of this model reflects a broader trend across the country, as providers seek to reach as many people as possible with minimal barriers.
Elsewhere, OSF HealthCare announced on September 18 that it would offer drive-up flu shots for the 2025 season, further expanding access beyond traditional clinic settings. Though details about locations and schedules were not included in the initial announcement, the move signals a continued commitment to public health and convenience.
It’s not just about individual protection, either. When more people get vaccinated, the entire community benefits. Flu shots help reduce the spread of the virus, protect vulnerable populations, and ease the burden on healthcare systems—something that’s especially important as hospitals and clinics continue to manage the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are still a few things to keep in mind. Flu vaccines don’t provide instant immunity; it takes about two weeks for your body to build up full protection. That’s why health experts—at Vanderbilt and beyond—urge everyone to get the shot before the end of October. And while the annual VUMC Flulapalooza event may be on pause, the sheer number of alternative options means there’s really no excuse to skip this important preventive measure.
For those with questions about specific clinic dates, vaccine types, or eligibility, both Vanderbilt and local health systems have made information readily available. Whether you’re a student, employee, senior, or simply a concerned community member, there’s a flu shot waiting for you—often at no cost and with minimal hassle.
As the days grow shorter and the threat of flu season draws nearer, public health officials across the country are sounding a clear message: get vaccinated, protect yourself, and help keep your community healthy. With so many convenient options on offer this year, staying ahead of the flu has never been easier—or more important.
