Flulapalooza
Every year, Vanderbilt hosts an event called “Flulapalooza!” From 6 AM to 6 PM, Vanderbilt vaccinates as many current students, faculty, and staff as they possibly can for absolutely free. Flulapalooza began in 2011 as a way for Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) to test its mass emergency vaccination plan. Therefore, it is only appropriate that Vanderbilt holds the Guinness World Record for most vaccinations given in one location during an eight-hour period, which was 12,850 the first year the event was held. Last year, 13,938 people were vaccinated at Flulapalooza. Since many Vanderbilt students shadow doctors at VUMC, Flulapalooza is a great way to get the required flu vaccine for free.
It’s an exciting event, and I was able to participate last week with my suitemate for the first time! We only waited in line for a total of ten minutes and were able to get a picture with T-Rac, the Tennessee Titans’ mascot! However, if you missed Flulapalooza, you can go to “Boo to the Flu,” which is a similar event on a smaller scale.
If you have any questions about my experience at Flulapalooza, feel free to email me at ashli.alexander@vanderbilt.edu!
