News

Immunization mandatory for active duty Airmen

  • Published
  • 436th Medical Group
Dover Air Force Base, Del. --  The 436th Medical Group will administer seasonal influenza immunizations to 436th Airlift Wing active duty Airmen Oct. 20, 21 and 22 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in conference room 2A on the second floor in the Base Clinic.

It is mandatory for all 436 AW active duty Airmen to receive the vaccine during this three-day time period, but Airmen do not have to schedule an appointment to receive their vaccine.

To accommodate a large number of Airmen while providing scheduling flexibility, each squadron is encouraged to evenly distribute the member's reporting times during the three-day immunization campaign.

"Seasonal flu poses a very real threat to mission effectiveness and the health of our Airmen," said Lt. Col. James Cowan, 436th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Public Health flight commander. "Fortunately, the vaccine is effective in preventing the flu."

Airmen will receive the FluMist vaccine, a gentle nasal mist, delivered into the nose. The vaccine prevents disease caused by seasonal influenza A and B viruses in non-pregnant, healthy persons ages 2 - 49 years old.

Patients who are pregnant, immune-compromised or have an allergy to eggs or latex may need a prescription from their physician to receive the flu vaccine.

For more information or questions about the FluMist vaccine, call the Immunization Clinic at 677-2478 or 677-2681.