KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's Sindecuse Health Center now has high-dose influenza vaccine on hand for patients age 65 and up, as well as the updated Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Both the high-dose influenza and COVID-19 shots can be given in a single appointment session.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone age 5 and up receive one dose of the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine. Those who are immunocompromised may receive one or more additional updated doses—ask your primary care physician for guidance. Unlike past COVID-19 immunizations, these visits will be billed to participating insurances. There is no funding available for those not covered by insurance, and the immunization costs $178.
Sindecuse has offered regular-dose influenza immunizations since mid-September to students, full- and part-time employees, retirees and other eligible individuals.
COVID-19 Practices
COVID-19 is treated like other infectious respiratory diseases at the health center. You may make an appointment to see a provider. Patients with any upper respiratory symptoms are expected to wear face coverings while in the center. CDC guidelines ask anyone testing positive for COVID to isolate for 5 days after the onset of symptoms. Your course of action after that depends on the severity of your symptoms, as found in the published CDC guidelines. Students should follow instructors guidance for reporting illness that affects class attendance.
Appointments
To get immunized, visit the patient portal to make an appointment.
- For a flu shot, choose the "Flu Shot" option. Patient 65 and up will be given the high-dose version of the influenza immunization.
- If seeking both vaccines, choose "Flu Shot Combo" and on the "Specify Appointment Reason" page, indicate your request for both a COVID-19 and a flu shot.
- If seeking only a COVID-19 vaccine, choose "Immunizations" and specify COVID-19.
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