MRC Manager's Update: Fall 2026

The Importance of Vaccination

You may have seen the email from the Campus Public Health Officer, Dr. Carol Bradford, reminding us of proper respiratory hygiene as well as the importance of getting vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 this fall. As Dr. Bradford shared:

Vaccinations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV remain some of the most effective ways to prevent illness and protect yourself and your community. At a time when national conversations about vaccine effectiveness and safety can create confusion, it is more important than ever to provide clear, evidence-based guidance about recommended vaccinations. Medical organizations, including American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommend the following:

  • COVID-19 vaccine: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get their COVID-19 vaccine.
    • Older than 65? Talk to your doctor about whether an additional booster is recommended.
  • Influenza: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get their updated flu vaccine.
    • Older than 65? Get a high-dose version of the flu vaccine.
  • RSV (respiratory syncytial virus): Adults age 75 and older, those with weakened immune systems, or those who are pregnant should get their RSV vaccine.

Through our partnership with Boynton Health, MRC members have assisted with campus fall mass vaccination clinics, providing greeters and registration assistance, as well as line management and ushers. It is a great opportunity to practice these roles in a non-emergency situation, and it has been fun! 

Three volunteer members standing in yellow and maroon shirts, in front of a sign that says "Get vaccinated this fall - Drop Ins'
Two MRC volunteers in front of sign on the ground that says "Get Vaccinated Today"

Our Vaccination Response Team, led by Boynton’s Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Director, Lesley Gray, was invited to volunteer for the seven clinics as part of this year’s team-specific training. The mass vaccination clinics are similar to how a Point of Dispensing (POD) would be set up and managed in an emergency that requires medical countermeasures. The clinics have been helpful to introduce a POD model to new MRC members, to refresh just-in-time training, and to build relationships among team members. 

Thank you to Boynton for the opportunity!