October 15, 2020
High-dose flu vaccine available at Lafene Health Center
Along with the standard dose flu vaccine, the high-dose flu vaccine that is recommended for adults 65 and older is available at Lafene Health Center. Limited doses are available. The high-dose vaccine works in the same way as the regular flu shot — delivering inactivated virus to prompt the body to make antibodies, but it is associated with a stronger immune response. Older adults are at a higher risk of flu complications. CDC studies estimate that this age group accounts for 70% to 85% of flu-related deaths and 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations each flu season.
If you haven't already had your annual flu shot, it's a smart idea to get one soon before flu cases start to peak. Lafene Health Center offers flu vaccines for all students, faculty and staff. An appointment for a flu vaccination can be made on the myLafene+ patient portal or by calling 785-532-6544. The cost for the flu vaccine is covered by most insurance companies, but if not, the cost for students is $22 and the cost for faculty and staff is $25.
Getting a flu vaccine every year provides the best protection against the flu. Although the flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, getting a flu vaccine during 2020-21 will be more important than ever.