Northern Michigan University is providing the $100 dining credit for a second time as a thank you to those who receive their vaccination. 

The dining credit opportunity started on Nov. 2 and will go until the end of 2021.

“We are quickly moving toward finals, travel and holiday celebrations, which unfortunately may increase the risk for contracting COVID-19,” Interim president Kerri Schuiling wrote. “The NMU Health Center continues to provide COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as flu shots, therefore, if you are not vaccinated and would like to be prior to travel call the NMU Health Center (906-227-2355) for an appointment.”

In addition, the Health Center offers booster shots for those eligible. Depending on which COVID-19 vaccine you have received, time can vary as to when you are able to receive the booster shot.

Those who received either Pfizer or Moderna according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, need to have received their primary vaccination six months prior to their booster shot. 

“You are eligible for a booster if you are 65 years and older, over 18 living in a long-term care facility, over 18 with underlying health conditions or over 18 working in a high-risk setting,” CDC wrote.

Those who received the Johnson & Johnson dosage only need to be over 18 to receive their booster and had the primary vaccination two months prior to the booster.

“Vaccinated individuals not only decrease their own risk of disease, but also decrease the risk of passing COVID-19 to family members, friends and loved ones who are at higher risk of contracting the disease, e.g. the very young or elderly, individuals with compromised immune systems, individuals who have not received either the vaccine or a booster dose,” Schuiling wrote.

While Michigan has hit the goal of 70% of all residents 16 and older receiving at least one COVID-19 vaccination, the state has been declared the worst COVID-19 hotspot according to the CDC.

In Marquette, UPHS is reporting an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations. 

“This is not a cause of panic, but something we’re monitoring,” Schuiling wrote. “Thankfully, NMU’s COVID cases have remained about the same each week of the semester so far. Let’s do everything we can to keep it that way.” 

Schuiling in her email addressed to campus on Thursday reminded everyone to be diligent about properly wearing masks, washing hands frequently and staying home when feeling unwell.

“If symptomatic, consult your healthcare provider, the NMU Health Center (227-2355) or local COVID-19 testing sites for testing options,” Schuiling wrote.