Prepare for flu season this month

  • Published
  • By Lia Martin
  • Nucleus Staff
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico --  Flu season is here. There is no one, who is taking the flu season more seriously than the Air Force. 

Human influenza is caused by a virus, which spreads from infected persons to the nose or throat of others. On average, 226,000 Americans are hospitalized each year due to influenza, and 36,000 will die. 

In particular, Team Kirtland active duty personnel are required - read, mandatory - to receive the FluMist® vaccine instead of the flu injections. Unlike the flu shot, this vaccine is shot up into the nasal cavity. 

According to its manufacturers, FluMist® contains live, attenuated (weakened) influenza virus that is unable to cause disease. FluMist® is the preferred vaccine due to its increased efficacy and cross-coverage of influenza strains. Not only does FluMist® provide better protection against the flu, it is an easy, safe, and painless vaccine to receive. 

Those allergic to eggs should not use this vaccination method or those with moderate to severe acute illness without first consulting a physician. 

The 377th Medical Group will be traveling to larger units and setting up central locations to provide flu shots. Flu shots are currently available for our high-risk beneficiaries. Other things you can do? 

Getting plenty of sleep, staying physically active, limiting stress, staying hydrated, and eating healthy are all ways to keep your immune system strong. 

You may contact the Immunization Clinic at 846-3101 if you have any questions about flu shots.