Flu vaccinations available for family members, retirees

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Anthony Duranti
  • 341st Medical Group
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  One of the best ways to prevent the influenza virus, or the flu, from infecting the body is by getting vaccinated each year. The Airmen from Air Force Global Strike Command's 341st Medical Group began to immunize all beneficiaries Oct. 25.

Patients who are six months of age and older should be immunized against the flu as soon as possible. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the flu is contagious and can cause mild to severe illness. Some patients, such as the elderly, young children and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk of complications from the flu virus.

If a person is considered high risk, he or she should be immunized early in the flu season. Flu vaccinations can be received anytime during from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the immunization clinic. The fourth Thursday of every month hours are 7:30 to 10 a.m. due to training requirements.

Additionally, dependants and retirees can receive the flu vaccine from any of the participating TRICARE pharmacies or providers. Call 1-877-363-1303 for a network provider and check with pharmacies ahead of time for vaccine availability and any applicable restrictions.

For more information about the flu, go to the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/.