Flu Season is here! Vaccine mandatory for servicemembers, available for civilians, contractors

  • Published
  • By 95th Medical Group
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The flu vaccine is available to Air Force Materiel Command's civilian and contractor workforce in addition to active-duty personnel and their family members.

Vaccinations are available to active duty, air reserve component and civilian employees at the Edwards Immunizations Clinic, located in Building 5525.

The flu vaccination comes in two forms, nasal spray - FluMist; and injection - FluZone. It is mandatory for active duty and air reserve component personnel. Additionally, the flu vaccine is required, as a condition of employment, for all civilian healthcare personnel "who provide direct patient care" in Department of Defense Military Treatment Facilities.

As part of the AFMC Civilian Workforce Influenza Vaccine Program, a predetermined quantity of flu vaccine has been purchased. Therefore, the vaccine program will be run on a first-come, first-served basis for the civilian workforce.

The Immunizations Clinic is a walk-in clinic, so no appointment is necessary. The average wait time is 5-10 minutes during peak business hours. Normal hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday service is available from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

In the United States, influenza season begins in October and can last until May. Influenza is a serious contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. The single best way to protect against the flu is to get a flu shot each year. Everyone six months of age and older should get a yearly flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after receiving a vaccination for your body to develop an immune response. Therefore, get vaccinated now so you are protected.

Some of the ways to prevent the spread of flu is to take everyday actions such as:
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue in the trash. If a tissue is not available, sneeze or cough into the inside of your elbow, not your hand.
  • Wash your hands often especially after you cough or sneeze.
    • Use soap and water or
    • Use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Stay away from people who are sick.
For further information, visit these websites:

US Department of Health and Human Services - http://healthfinder.gov/scripts/SearchContext.asp?topic=2158

Tricare - http://www.tricare.mil/

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2010/r100224.htm

Please contact the Immunizations Clinic at 661-277-3427 with any questions.