Editor’s note: This article is being republished as a correction. The Aug. 27 article “Foust offers free flue shots” contained incorrect price information. University Health Services offer flu vaccinations at a $25 cost.

University Health Services will offer walk-in flu vaccinations for $25 in late September or early October.

UHS Director James Barker said everybody should get flu shots.

“It’s really important especially for students who live on campus,” Barker said. “Getting the shot will really protect you – the flu spreads so easily.”

Barker said the flu can spread by touching doorknobs and coughing.

“The symptoms are a little different each time,” he said. “They include muscle aches, severe weakness and severe cough. The flu is terrible; many people die.”

According to the Center for Disease Control Web site, cdc.gov, “some of the complications caused by flu include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.”

The Web site also states that 5 to 20 percent of U.S. residents get the flu each year.

Assistant Director of Patient Services Loretta Moran said 36,000 people in the U.S. die each year from the flu.

“Flu shots can be a benefit to the community because you’re not only protecting yourself but others,” Moran said. “In general, most students don’t get flu shots but we’d like to see a higher population of students get vaccinated. In residence halls and auditoriums its easier to be exposed.”

The University Health Services Web site, healthservices.cmich.edu, suggests students contact a doctor upon first sign of symptoms.

Barker said the flu is a common disease.

“There are so many people who get the flu,” Barker said.

Health Services is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in Foust Hall.

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