A flu clinic will be held in the West Ballroom in the Union for students to receive flu vaccinations February 12, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on a first come, first serve basis. Student Health nurse practitioners will be administering the shots.
“We’ve been pleasantly surprised that we have not seen a lot of flu cases this year, which I think is a trend that’s being reflected nationwide, in part because of the measures that we’re taking to try to reduce the spread of COVID, fortunately, are actually even more effective against the spread of flu,” the director and primary care nurse practitioner at Student Health, Mary Beth Bender, said.
Bender said they are still encouraging everyone to get the flu shot even though cases are low.
“You don’t want to get sick with the flu and have your immune system take a hit, and then be more susceptible to COVID. Or vice versa. You’ve had COVID and then suddenly, now you’re more susceptible to the flu,” Bender said.
Alicia Perez, senior majoring in communications, said she did not know that Student Health gave the flu vaccination but would have gotten vaccinated there if she had known. Perez said she typically drives home to Cheyenne to get vaccinated by her regular health care physician every year but would’ve gone to Student Health due to the convenience of it.
Perez said she cannot recall every having the flu.
“I think it’s because I’ve been vaccinated every year for as long as I remember,” Perez said. “I wouldn’t say I have strong feelings about getting the vaccine. It’s just been so routine in my life that I expect it when flu season comes around.”
Faculty, staff and the public are not able to receive flu vaccinations through this clinic or Student Health. This is due to Student Health being a student funded program on campus.
The flu shots are $25 but students with the Student Health insurance will be charged to their insurance and do not have to bring money to the clinic. Students who do not have the Student Health insurance will be charged for the shot to their student account.
Bender said they price the flu vaccination each year depending on the cost to Student Health for them and they try to price it competitively with other sources who also offer the shot. They also want it to be affordable for students.
Perez said, “For a college student without health insurance I do think that is a good price. I think it allows for everyone who wants to get vaccinated to be.”
Students may request a charge statement in the week to follow and submit their insurance for a reimbursement.
If a student is unable to attend the clinic or wishes for more privacy, they may make an appointment with Student Health via phone call while supplies last.
