Bronson Encourages Community Members to Get Annual Flu Vaccine
Primary care appointments and curbside clinics offer convenient ways to protect against seasonal flu.
KALAMAZOO and BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — With flu season approaching, Bronson Healthcare is encouraging community members to protect themselves and those around them by getting an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for everyone ages six months and older. A vaccine can help reduce the risk of serious illness, especially for people who are pregnant, have chronic health conditions or may be more vulnerable to complications.
Flu season can start as early as October and extend into May, with cases often peaking during the winter months.
“A flu vaccine is the best defense against influenza, a contagious respiratory illness that can spread through coughing, sneezing, talking or touching contaminated surfaces,” said William Workman, D.O., chief of primary care at Bronson Healthcare. “Getting vaccinated each year is a simple, important way to lower your risk of severe illness and help protect family members, coworkers, patients and others in the community.”
Bronson offers flu vaccines throughout the fall and winter at many primary care offices. Patients with an upcoming primary care appointment can ask about receiving a flu vaccine, COVID-19 booster or other recommended vaccines during that visit. Many Bronson primary care offices also offer vaccine-only appointments, and patients should call their office to check availability.
Bronson will also offer the following curbside flu vaccine clinics, available by appointment:
- Bronson LakeView Family Care in Paw Paw
- September 19, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- November 14, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Bronson Family Medicine, Helmer Rd., Battle Creek
- September 19, 8 a.m. to noon
- October 24, 8 a.m. to noon
- Bronson Rambling Road in Portage (pediatrics only)
- September 22, 5 to 7 p.m.
- September 26, 8 to 11 a.m.
- Bronson Rambling Road in Oshtemo (pediatrics only)
- September 23, 5 to 7 p.m.
- Bronson Family Medicine, Bronson Internal Medicine on Stadium Drive in Kalamazoo
- September 23, 5 to 7 p.m.
- Bronson Primary Care Partners in Three Rivers
- September 26, 8 a.m. to noon
- September 22, 4 to 7 p.m.
- October 27, 8 a.m. to noon
There are several ways to schedule a flu vaccine:
- Through MyChart
- Calling your Bronson primary care provider
- Call Bronson Central Scheduling at (269) 341-8700
- Call a Bronson Care Advisor at (269) 341-7788
- Schedule online through Bronson’s flu page
Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, cough and shortness of breath. Anyone with flu-like symptoms should stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid contact with others. People whose symptoms worsen, cause concern or interfere with daily activities should contact their primary care provider or seek care through Bronson’s care options.