MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, MONT. -- In the United States, influenza (flu) season occurs in the fall and winter, with the peak season occurring anywhere from late November through March. The overall health impacts, for example infections, hospitalizations and deaths, of the flu season varies from year to year. Between Oct. 1, 2015, and April 30, 2016, there have been 8,772 laboratory confirmed flu-associated hospitalizations and an estimated 2,990 deaths associated with flu infections. Of these cases, 433 hospitalizations and 33 deaths occurred in Montana.
What exactly is the flu? Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of the flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms: fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and/or fatigue. Some may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, although this is more common in children than in adults. Most individuals who contract the flu will recover in several days, but it can take up to two weeks. Children younger than 5 years old, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women and immunosuppressed people are at higher risk of severe complications associated with the flu.
Flu is commonly spread from person to person by droplets made when individuals with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are within 6 feet or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might also contract the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose. To avoid this, individuals should stay away from people who are sick; those infected with the flu should stay home. It also is important to wash hands often with soap and hot water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Linens, eating utensils and dishes belonging to those who are sick should not be shared without washing thoroughly first. Eating utensils can be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with soap and hot water and do not need to be cleaned separately. Further, frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected at home, work and school, especially if someone is ill.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend yearly flu vaccination for everyone 6 months of age and older. The seasonal flu shot protects against the three or four flu viruses that research predicts to be the most common during the upcoming season. The CDC recommends use of injectable flu vaccines during 2016-2017.
The 341st Medical Group provides flu vaccinations for all active duty military personnel, their dependents and other authorized beneficiaries. While active-duty members must be vaccinated on base, there are multiple off-base locations family members and retirees may visit to receive the flu vaccination. Individuals will need to provide a military ID card or proof of insurance card at off-base locations. These locations will not provide flu vaccinations to anyone less than 18 years of age. If the vaccination is done off-base, individuals will need to bring a copy of their receipt or vaccination record to the immunization clinic to update their military vaccination records.
For questions or concerns, contact the Public Health Office at 731-4405, the Immunizations Clinic at 731-4455 or the appointment line at 732-4633.