UW-Milwaukee launches community COVID-19 vaccine clinic

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Starting Tuesday, March 16, there’s a new place for people to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Those in eligible groups can now go to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

The clinic is on the second floor of the UWM Student Union on East Kenwood Blvd.

You must register online to schedule an appointment.

Walk-ins are not accepted.

“We have the opportunity to bring vaccines to Milwaukee and not only take care of UWM faculty and staff but also the community," said Kim Litwack, dean of the College of Nursing at UWM.

In the opening week, she said they hope to administer 1,400 vaccinations.

“We will always make sure that we use every dose that we have, pre-registration helps make that happen," she said.

Eligible members are in the groups approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Right now, those are people in Groups 1a and 1b – which includes 65 and older, educators, police and fire, some essential workers and others.

UWM also has a link to DHS’ criteria on its website.

If you’re eligible, you’ll first fill out UWM’s Vaccine Interest Form.

You’ll select the group you’re in and answer a few background questions.

Within a few days, UWM will send you an email to schedule an appointment.

“I think people have been carrying a weight on their shoulders for the last year and you don’t realize how heavy that weight has been until you get your first vaccine," said Litwack.

If the form link does not work, UWM says it’s because there are no doses currently available.

There is no wait list so you’ll have to check back often.

This clinic is a partnership with Advocate Aurora Health and the Milwaukee Heath Department.

“We’re hoping to vaccinate great numbers of members of the community so we can put an end to this pandemic," said Christine Larson, Advocate Aurora Health senior director administrator.

The clinic will normally be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Make sure to bring a photo ID.

Parking is free in the UWM Student Union parking garage -- take your ticket with you for validation.

For more information on the UWM vaccine clinic, click here.