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UCSB’s Student Health suggests everyone to avoid entering ocean water surrounding campus due to high bacteria level. Review updates on ocean closure, flu shots, and Gaucho Health Insurance to better protect yourself during the January storm and the flu season.
âReview the following updates on ocean closure, flu shots, and Gaucho Health Insurance from UCSB's Student Health, to better protect yourself during âthe January storm and the flu season.
Ocean Waters Closed due to Health Hazards
Santa Barbara County Public Health Officer has ordered no public use of the ocean from Gaviota in the north to Carpinteria State Beach in the south, which includes all of the beaches surrounding UCSB. People should not enter the water as levels of bacteria highly exceed recommended levels, along with other hazardous materials from the recent mudslides and flooding. All ocean water in these locations should be considered contaminated and no recreational activities or swimming should take place. This order does not include the sandy beaches themselves. Further information can be found âhereâ, including future determinations of when the ocean is again safe for use. Student Health is open regular hours and can see any students concerned about health effects of ocean exposure.
Protect Yourself with a Flu Shot
California is now experiencing widespread influenza outbreakâ. Student Health strongly encourages everyone to protect themselves and others by getting a flu shot, and avoiding infection through frequent hand washing, staying home when ill, and covering any sneezing or coughing. Please be sure to stop by Student Health for a FREE flu shot, covered by your Gaucho Health Insurance (GHI) plan. Students without GHI are able to get the shot for $30.
Express Flu Shot Clinics: Fridays, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Drop-in Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9-11:30 a.m. & 1:30-4 p.m.
Gaucho Health Insurance
Gaucho âHealth Insurance (GHI) plan covers your visits to Student Health without additional charges, and wherever you travel using the Aetna PPO provider network. Be sure to download or print out your I.D. card and have it available when you travel. Phone numbers are listed on the back of the card for customer service, 24/7 nurse line advice, and international information.
Student Health is open for appointments and drop-in Urgent Care and Advice Nurses from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays (except Wednesdays open at 9 a.m.), and Thursday evenings until 7 p.m. (by appointment only). Students can make appointments online after 5 p.m. for the next day or for the future.