Flu vaccinations -- ensuring mission readiness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Siuta B. Ika
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  The 49th Medical Group will be distributing flu vaccinations at the Deployment Processing Center, Building 908, from 8 a.m. Nov. 9 through 4:30 p.m. Nov. 10.

During these times, the processing center will be manned 24/7 and no appointments will be necessary to receive the vaccination which is mandatory for active duty members and reserve members on active orders.

Capt. Rachel Casey, 49th Medical Support Squadron Diagnostics and Therapeutics Flight commander, said Airmen should fill out the flu and blood product screening questionnaires before the actual event to streamline the process.

She also said that it's estimated that twenty percent of the American population will get the seasonal flu each year, but those vaccinated stand a better chance of not becoming part of that statistic.

"All Airmen should receive the seasonal flu vaccine because it will decrease the likelihood of illness and lost work time, ensuring our Airmen are combat ready and our mission never falters," said Captain Casey.

She added that the organizers of this year's flu point of distribution recognized that not all of the Airmen supporting mission readiness at Holloman work typical hours, so a 36-hour distribution block was chosen to accommodate Airmen working the different shifts, as well as those participating in other base exercises and activities.

"We want to ensure that everyone will have an opportunity to receive his or her flu shot in the easiest and most efficient way possible," said Captain Casey.

For more information on how to get a flu vaccination contact your supervisor.