Flu Shot Clinics

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Fall 2026 Flu Shot Clinics

The Student Health and Wellness Center is offering flu vaccinations during the month of October. This year’s flu shot clinics are:

Tuesday, October 6
Sandburg Flicks
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Thursday, October 15
Student Health and Wellness Center, 7th Floor
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wednesday, October 21
Student Health and Wellness Center, 7th Floor
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

  • What is the flu? 
    • The flu is a respiratory illness caused by either influenza A or influenza B viruses and is spread easily from person-to-person. Flu typically infects the nose, throat, and lungs, can cause mild to severe illness and can be fatal.  The flu is usually a seasonal illness that is most commonly seen in the Fall and Winter months in Wisconsin. The flu can be spread at any time, so it is important to take precautions year-round.  
  • How is the flu spread? 
    • Flu is spread by the droplets that are produced when someone who is sick coughs, sneezes, or talks.  These droplets can land in another person’s nose or mouth who are within close distances. If someone touches an object or surface with the virus on it, and then touches their face, mouth, or eyes, they can get sick. 
  • What are the signs and symptoms of the flu? 
    • People who have the flu may often feel some or all of the symptoms listed below: 
      • Fever 
      • Cough 
      • Sore throat 
      • Runny or stuffy nose 
      • Muscle or body aches 
      • Headaches 
      • Fatigue (feeling very tired) 
    • Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea (these symptoms are more common in children) 
    • Symptoms can show up one to four days after being exposed to the flu virus. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to death. Symptoms usually begin suddenly, unlike the common cold. Many people who get the flu will recover in a few days to two weeks, but some people may become very sick, or have complications that may be life-threatening. Complications can range from sinus and ear infections, to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. Many people who become very sick are older than 65 have a medical condition such as diabetes or asthma, kidney disease, or are pregnant. 
  • What symptoms do you have? What should you do? 
    • If you have a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, this is considered a fever, and you should stay home and isolate. Before returning to work or class, you should be fever free without the use of fever reducing medication for 24 hours.
    • If you have two or more symptoms but no fever, you can attend work or school but it is recommended to wear a mask to avoid spreading germs to others.
  • How can I prevent myself and others from the flu? 
  • Is there treatment for the flu? 
    • There is no treatment for the flu. Some antiviral drugs are available that may reduce the severity of illness after a person has the flu. Talk to your primary care provider about treatment options. Generally, get rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter pain relievers to help reduce the discomfort of illness as needed.   
  • Resources 
  • When is the best time to get my influenza vaccine?
    • The best time to receive your flu shot is by the end of October.  This will allow you to have immunity during the peak influenza season.
  • Why should I get a flu vaccine?
    • The best way to prevent influenza is with an annual influenza vaccination.  
  • I got the flu vaccine last year. Do I really need it every year?
    • Influenza viruses are constantly changing. Every season, the flu vaccine is updated to protect against the influenza viruses that are found to be the most common during the upcoming season. In addition, immune protection declines over time; the annual flu shot boosts your immunity each year.
  • What can I do if I am having issues scheduling my flu shot?
    • Students can call 414-229-7429 to schedule a flu shot appointment.
  • How can I get a flu shot if I can’t make one of the flu clinic times?
    • If you are unable to attend one of the flu clinics, a nurse visit at the Student Health and Wellness center can be scheduled online or by calling 414-229-7429.  
  • How much is the flu shot?
    • Thanks to a partnership with Alana’s Foundation, flu shots will be free for students and don’t require insurance. 
    • Alana’s Foundation was established in memory of Alana Yaksich, who died in 2003 due to complications from the flu. Their mission is to educate the public about the importance of yearly influenza vaccinations and in doing so, increase vaccination rates by providing convenient and affordable flu vaccination options. The foundation is a 100% volunteer run organization and incurs no administrative fees relying solely on generous donations from private individuals and businesses. 
  • How can I get documentation that I received a flu vaccine if I attend a flu clinic?
    • Influenza vaccines are documented in the Wisconsin Immunization Registry within 24 hours of receiving the vaccine. You can also ask for documentation at the time of your flu shot. 

Questions?

Contact the SHAW Flu Clinic Team at shaw-fluclinic-owners@uwm.edu for questions and more information.