Flu season starts Published Sept. 12, 2012 17th Medical Group GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- This year's flu season vaccination program kicked off for the 17th Training Wing in the Norma Brown Building Sept 11. Col. Mark Damiano, 17th Training Wing Commander, along with group commanders, joint service leaders and other wing leadership received their flu vaccination. The regular flu season starts this month and runs until June 2013. "We are working on a schedule now for active duty and Defense Department beneficiaries," said Capt. Renee Jackson, 17th Medical Group public health officer. "Our goal is to have the majority of active duty vaccinated by the end of October." Vaccinations are mandatory for all active duty, reserve and guard personnel. The vaccine will first be offered to the training squadrons, active duty permanent party personnel and other high-risk personnel. The clinic expects to start offering the flu vaccine to all other DOD beneficiaries by Oct. 30. The 17th MDG will mail letters to high risk beneficiaries. Those who receive a letter should bring it to the Immunization Clinic to receive a vaccine. The Immunization Clinic will be offering the flu vaccine on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., except on the third Thursday of each month, due to clinic closure for monthly training. "Immunization is the best primary prevention for influenza," said Jackson. "Secondary prevention measures include, covering your cough and washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. You can also use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, try to avoid close contact with sick people through social distancing and do not go to work if you are sick." For more information contact the Immunization Clinic at 654-1484.
