COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 2017-2018 flu season is quickly approaching and with increased viral activity comes the need to be immunized. All active-duty members are required to be vaccinated, and all dependents and retirees, ages six months and older, are highly encouraged to receive a flu vaccination as soon as the vaccine is available.
Delivery of this year’s influenza vaccine to the 14th Medical Group is pending. Once it arrives, a schedule is developed, and eligible members and families will be updated through the 14th MDG and Columbus AFB Facebook pages.
To ensure effective, targeted vaccination coverage, the Immunization Clinic will use a phased strategy that will begin with our first responders (medical personnel, fire department, and security forces). A base flu line will be set up at the Base Chapel for all other active-duty military, Defense Department employees and contractors ONLY. Once the first phase is complete, the flu vaccine will be made available to dependents, retirees, and other DOD-eligible members at the Immunization Clinic during normal duty hours, Monday through Wednesday 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Thursday 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Influenza is spread primarily from person to person through coughing, sneezing or talking to people with influenza. The virus can survive on surfaces and can infect a person for two to eight hours after being deposited on the surface.
It is important to take preventive measures such as vaccinations and practicing good hygiene to safeguard personal health every day, but especially during flu season.
Here are some things that can be done to protect everyone's health this flu season:
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Protect yourself by getting the flu vaccine.
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
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Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
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Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
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At work, tell your supervisor if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. You may be asked to wear a mask, sent for a flu test, or asked to go home. If you are directed to go to the 14th MDG, tell the front desk that you think you have the flu, and you will be asked to wear a mask.
For more information on influenza, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/flu/.