Flu vaccine now available to Airmen at clinic

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. – Brig. Gen. Garrett Harencak, 509th Bomb Wing commander, receives a FluMist vaccination from Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Norris, 509th Medical Operations Squadron, Sept. 24. Active duty members are required to receive either the FluMist or a flu shot. For more information, call the immunizations clinic at 687-4304.(U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jessica Snow)

Flu vaccine now available to Airmen at clinic

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. – Ch. (Capt.) Curt Cizek, 509th Bomb Wing Chapel, receives a FluMist vaccination from Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Norris, 509th Medical Operations Squadron, Sept. 24. Active duty members are required to receive either the FluMist or a flu shot. For more information, call the immunizations clinic at 687-4304.(U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jessica Snow)

Flu vaccine now available to Airmen at clinic

Published Sept. 25, 2008
By 509th Medical Group

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The 509th Medical Group has received its first shipment of flu vaccine and is ready to vaccinate. At this time, flu shots are available only to active duty members and TRICARE- eligible high-risk civilians.

Once the Medical Group receives additional flu vaccine, a notice will be published in the Whiteman Warrior announcing that the vaccine is available for all remaining TRICARE- eligible dependents and retirees.

Throughout history, influenza has been one of the stealthiest combatants military forces have ever encountered. The outcome of almost every major military campaign has been decided by the health of the forces - the side with the healthiest force won. As a vital part of maintaining a fit fighting force, the 509th Medical Group offers the 2008/2009 influenza vaccination program.

The flu vaccination is required for active duty members because influenza is a serious disease. It can incapacitate or degrade effectiveness of members for significant periods, thereby compromising mission capabilities.

The "influenza season" in the United States takes place from October through May each year. Flu is caused by a virus that spreads from one infected person to the noses or throats of others, and can move rapidly through groups of people in dormitories and work areas. Flu can cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza kills about 36,000 people and hospitalizes more than 200,000 people each year in the United States. The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination each fall.

The following good health habits are also important ways to prevent the flu:

- Washing your hands often will help protect you from the virus that causes flu.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

The Immunization Clinic will schedule Squadron visits based upon priorities set forth by Air Force guidance. For more details, contact the Immunization Clinic at 687-4304 or Public Health at 687-4310.