September 19, 2024

Flu immunizations will be available on campus Oct. 10, 23

The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) will provide free flu immunizations for all active and retired SIU Carbondale employees, their dependents and surviving spouses enrolled in a state-sponsored health plan. 

As part of that effort, the Jackson County Health Department will administer the immunizations at two walk-up flu shot clinics, set for 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 10 and Oct. 23 in the Student Center’s Renaissance Room. 

The SIU chapter of the State University Annuitants Association will have an informational table in the Renaissance Room during the clinic to answer questions about SIU employees' pensions for current employees and retirees and on how to join SUAA.

Flu shots are encouraged 

This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is encouraging anyone older than 6 months to get the flu shot if they are able. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of illness, hospitalization and death. 

High-dose vaccines for older adults, age 65 and older, will be available as long as supplies last. 

Masks are highly encouraged, but not required 

Participants are reminded to wear clothing that will allow for the vaccine to be given in the upper arm. 

If you are not enrolled in the state-sponsored health plan or are a contractual employee, volunteer, student or graduate assistant, you are not eligible for the free flu immunization provided by CMS. 

Employees are required to present verification of employment (university ID/picture ID) and a state health insurance card to receive the free immunization. Retirees and survivors of state employees will be required to provide their state health insurance card and one type of picture identification. 

For health department billing purposes, individuals must provide either: 

  • The last four digits of their Social Security number.
  • Address.
  • Date of birth. 

Retirees and survivors will be required to provide their red, white and blue Medicare card if they are enrolled in Medicare Part B coverage. 

Dependent information 

If you have dependents who would like to receive a flu vaccine but are not covered by a state plan, bring a copy of their insurance card to the clinics. The health department can bill most private insurance plans. You may call 618-684-3143, ext. 141, to verify if the private health insurance is accepted. 

Dependents not covered by insurance may receive flu immunizations by paying $48, or $88 for a high dose immunization for people 65 and older. Cash, check or Medicaid is also accepted. Credit and debit cards are accepted only at the health department office. 

Graduate assistants, teaching assistants and students may receive immunizations at Student Health Services, which offers flu vaccines. Please contact Student Health Services to schedule an appointment. Students who have SIU health insurance will receive the shots at no charge; other students must pay $25. 

The state Vaccine for Children (VFC) will only be offered at the Jackson County Health Department, 415 Health Department Road, Murphysboro. (This program is for those who are VFC eligible such as uninsured, have insurance that does not cover vaccines, Alaska Natives/Native Americans or on Medicaid.) 

Additional opportunities to receive a flu shot 

If you cannot attend one of the scheduled clinics listed above, you may go to the Jackson County Health Department to receive your free immunization. For more information, visit the health department’s website or call 618-684-3143, ext. 150. 

Any other questions may be directed to the Office of Human Resources Employee Benefits at 618-453-6668 or visit the department’s website.