Breaking News: FIU to Offer Pfizer Booster and Flu Vaccines

Emiliana Fawley-Puello / Staff Writer

FIU now offers the single booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine on campus.

Students, faculty, staff, retirees and members of their household are eligible to receive the booster at the Modesto Maidique Campus vaccination site located in the Graham Center Piano Lounge.

“We must remain vigilant and do all that we can to continue to slow the spread,” stated a university-wide email on Friday, Sept. 24.

The booster shot is available for individuals 65 and older, and those 18 to 64 with high risk of contracting COVID-19 or who work in high-risk environments. The booster can only be received six months after one’s first and second doses, as per recent guidelines set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The email highlighted the importance of vaccines as the highly contagious Delta variant continues to spread.

“Please get vaccinated now. If you are unvaccinated, you are assuming a significant risk to your health,” read the email. 

First and second doses of the Pfizer vaccine are also available at MMC’s vaccine site open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Moderna vaccines are available every Thursday.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome, the email noted. A photo ID or birth certificate is required. 

As flu season approaches, the email also recommended visiting the Student Health Clinic for a free flu vaccine. The shot is also offered to faculty and staff at the FIU Health Faculty Practice, and billed to one’s insurance.

“A flu shot is the most effective way to prevent serious illness and hospitalization,” stated the email.

Visit the Panthers Protecting Panthers website for more information about COVID-19, on-campus testing and vaccines.