CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – With the University of Virginia back off winter break, and experts predicting a “brutal” flu season, UVA Health is urging its students to take advantage of a vaccination clinic Tuesday.

By Jan. 3, the Center For Disease Control reported about 15 million flu illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 7,400 deaths this flu season, including 17 child fatalities.

“Students just returned, and we know, based on historic data, that when they first return, they’re coming from all over the country (and world), and with that, bringing other viruses, too,” said Dr. Chris Holstege, senior associate vice president of UVA’s Student Health and Wellness, a release last week. “… A couple of weeks after they come (back) after winter break, we really see the numbers really escalate.”

The Blue Ridge Health District reported the first child fatality, a child four years or younger, on Jan. 15.

“We at the Virginia Department of Health, are broken hearted and extend our sympathies to the family of this child during this difficult time,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD, in a statement. “Even though the flu is common, it can cause serious illness and even death. I urge everyone who is eligible to receive the flu vaccine to do so not only to protect themselves, but to protect those around them.”

UVA Health is holding a vaccine clinic Tuesday, offering COVID-19, Influenza (flu), Human Papillomaviras (HPV), Meningitis and Tdap/Whooping Cough shots. The vaccines are covered by most insurance plans, UVA Health announced, meaning there will be no cost for most insured patients.

The clinic will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Department of Student Health and Wellness at 550 Brandon Ave.

Patients can register in advance, though walk-ins are also accepted.

The Virginia Department of Health recommends everyone over six months in age get a flu shot.