Fortification through Immunization: 319th MDG conducts 2012 flu vaccinations

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Luis Loza Gutierrez
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The 319th Medical Group began conducting scheduled influenza immunization sessions for active-duty members at the Community Activity Center here on Sept. 7.

"After filling out the required questionnaire it literally takes just few seconds for the vaccine to be administered," said Tech. Sgt. Eric Ferguson, 319th Medical Operations Squadron NCO in-charge of immunizations. "The process may seem simple, but immunizations are a very important part of the Medical Group's mission of protecting the health of our force and community."

Friday was the first of four scheduled sessions for active-duty members. The second and third sessions are Sept. 10 and 11 from 1 to 4 p.m. and the final session is Sept. 13 from 8 a.m. till noon. All sessions will take place at the Community Activity Center, located across from the Base Exchange. Ferguson advises active-duty members to not wait until the last day to get immunized.

Due to national supply levels, flu immunizations at Grand Forks AFB are only being provided to active-duty members. Family members and other authorized beneficiaries will receive their immunizations when the vaccine is ready in about 30 to 60 days, Ferguson added.

Medical personnel are following the Air Force 2012-2013 Influenza Immunization Program, which sets a vaccination coverage goal of at least 90 percent for all service members by Dec. 17, 2012.

According to the Immunization Program's guidance, seasonal influenza epidemics occur annually in the United States, are unpredictable and can be severe. Estimates of influenza-related events include 95 million infections, 30 million patient visits and more than 200,000 hospitalizations. Between 1976 and 2006, estimates of flu-associated deaths in the United States ranged from a low of about 3,000 to a high of approximately 49,000.

"A person who doesn't have their annual influenza shot is at higher risk of getting sick with the flu, and if their body temperature rises higher than 105 degrees (Fahrenheit) the results can be fatal," said Ferguson.

As a general rule, everyone 6 months or older should receive an influenza vaccination, according to Air Force medical officials.

Contact the Immunization Clinic at 701-747-5451 for more information, or if you have questions about specific health concerns.