In addition to offering seasonal flu vaccines, the Amelia T. Wood Health Center will also be distributing the swine flu vaccine to students this flu season.
The H1N1 vaccine for swine flu will be available sometime between the middle and end of October at Ball State University and will be free for students.
It will have two doses that can be given at the same time or separately from each other.
Kent Bullis, director of the Health Center, said he has asked Delaware County officials for 4,000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine, but doesn't know yet how many will be made available. He said he anticipates a high demand for this vaccine because it will be free.
In addition to ordering a large supply, the Health Center will also be "bending over backwards for students to get the vaccine," Bullis said.
The vaccine will be available at the Health Center, as well as at other locations across campus. Bullis said the Arts and Journalism Building and the L.A. Pittenger Student Center are being considered as alternate locations.
But, even with these additional locations, some students say they aren't interested in getting the vaccine.
"I just don't think I really need to [get the swine flu vaccine]. People can die from the regular flu too," freshman Kelsey Waite said.
Junior Nick Jones said he supports the Health Center's decision to provide the vaccine, and recognizes that college students are more susceptible because of their lifestyle.
"But I hate needles, so I'm not going to get it," he said.
Junior Sarah Mahl said she would only consider getting the shot if her parents ask her to.
"If I can avoid a shot, I will," she said.
The Health Center will also begin distributing the seasonal flu vaccine by Sept. 18, according to a campus e-mail sent Friday. The seasonal flu vaccine will cost $17 for students.
Bullis said this year he ordered 800 doses of the seasonal flu vaccine, which is typically distributed to 600-700 people.
Bullis said students who are pregnant, have heart or lung conditions or an immune system disorder are strongly encouraged to get both flu vaccines. People in good health are also advised to consider the vaccines as a way to protect themselves and the surrounding community.
Students will not have to make appointments to get the vaccines. Bullis said more information about specific dates and locations to get the vaccines will be announced soon.
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