Colleges urge students to get flu shot

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (AP/WPRI) -- Colleges across Rhode Island are urging all students to get a flu shot before returning to campus for the spring semester.
   
URI is encouraging staff and faculty to get vaccinated before the start of classes on Jan. 23.

The Dean of Rhode Island College, Scott Kane, is also urging students to get vaccinated.

"We are redoubling our efforts as we get ready to open this weekend and have students return to the residence halls. We are sending out notifications to faculty, staff, and students," said Kane.

• Related: Flu Clinic Schedule

University of Rhode Island officials say flu shots will not be available on campus. In addition, RIC officials say they do not have enough of the vaccine for every student.
   
Rhode Island Health Department Director Michael Fine has described this flu season as "particularly severe." He says it could be the worst in years and has also been urging people to get vaccinated.
   
State health officials have said there is plenty of vaccine left. It is available at pharmacies, public clinics and doctors' offices.