Free flu shot clinic for military veterans

Published Oct. 22, 2008
By Floyd E. Vasquez
Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- The annual Walk-In Flu Shot Clinic at the Raymond G. Murphy Veterans Affairs Medical Center is open and serving veterans daily.

The flu shots are being given in the "B Clinic" area on the ground floor of Building 41 (main hospital) at 1501 San Pedro Drive Southeast. Veterans using the main hospital entrance will find the B Clinic area on the left side of the ground floor waiting room just past the Espresso Bar.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. through Dec. 19.

The flu shot is free for all veterans enrolled with the New Mexico VA Health Care System. Veterans not yet enrolled with VHA should bring a copy of their DD214 and photo identification.

"The idea that only older people need flu shots is a myth," said Dr. Susan M. Kellie, hospital epidemiologist. "Flu vaccine is now recommended for over 70 percent of the U.S. population, including older persons, those with underlying medical conditions, pregnant women, children from 6 months to 18 years and caregivers."

Enrolled veterans who receive a flu shot elsewhere are requested to call their Primary Care Physician or Clinic and report where and when a shot was received.

For more information on the Flu Shot Clinic, call Janet Chambers, at 265-1711, ext. 4656.