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Medical Group: Flu season is coming

  • Published
  • 379th Expeditionary Medical Group
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Influenza is a very serious disease and has led to many hospitalizations and even death. The pandemic of 1918 has been known to be the most devastating epidemic in world history. Not only were 20 to 40 million people around the world killed by the disease, but nearly 43,000 service members mobilized for World War I died of influenza.
While we have taken great strides to counter the impact of the flu, we must continue to do our part to protect ourselves and each other.

Usually the flu season begins as early as October, peaks in the January/February timeframe, and can continue until May. The Centers for Disease Control identify the flu vaccination as the primary prevention strategy to reduce the chance of getting seasonal flu and spreading it to others. While being vaccinated does offer a great level of protection, combining it with proper hand hygiene and cough etiquette increases the effectiveness in protecting yourself.

Receiving the vaccine is a mandatory requirement for all Active Duty, Reserve, and Guard personnel. In an effort to ensure the service members here are vaccinated, there will be multiple venues available around the installation to receive the flu vaccination.

For questions or concerns, contact the immunizations clinic here at 437-4216, or Public Health at 437-8855/8854. As soon as vaccine becomes available, locations and times for mass immunizations will be advertised.