Although the specifics are being finalized, the NIH wants to assure staff that Foil the Flu, the annual seasonal influenza immunization program for NIH employees and contractors, is scheduled to begin in late September/early October.

Unlike past years, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, no walk-ins will be allowed. The entire immunization campaign will be by appointment only. Clinics will be available both on and off the main campus (and at satellite locations), recognizing that some employees currently in a maximum telework situation may prefer to come to an off-campus site instead of the main campus. Strict adherence to physical distancing and face masks will be an integral aspect of the clinic.

All federal employees and contractors with a valid NIH identification badge are eligible and encouraged to receive flu vaccine for free and are encouraged to be immunized against the flu. The best way to reduce the risk of getting the flu is to get the flu vaccine every year. All staff who have patient contact in the Clinical Center, including employees and contractors, are required to get immunized each year.

The NIH will share additional details once exact dates and locations have been finalized. When available, details about this year's campaign will be posted on the Foil the Flu website: https://foiltheflu.nih.gov/. (At this time, the information on the site is from last year).

Foil the Flu is sponsored by the NIH Office of Research Services/Division of Occupational Health and Safety/Occupational Medical Service and the NIH Clinical Center/Hospital Epidemiology Service.