JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza viruses constantly change and adapt, meaning the length, severity and timing of the flu season also varies, bringing with it congested noses, sneezes and coughs.
At Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, the flu season is in full swing and although units may be experiencing Individual Medical Readiness flags, vaccines are on their way.
Vaccinations will be held at the USAF Hospital Langley Atrium Oct. 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29 and 31. The venue will be open from 6 to 8 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 to 4 p.m. As of this writing, vaccines are available for active-duty personnel only.
Approximately 5 to 20 percent of Americans contract the flu each year and although most people who become infected with the virus recover without any complications, the flu can cause serious illness and even death. Knowing and understanding preventive measures can significantly reduce these numbers said Staff Sgt. Stephanie Braun-Simon, 633rd Aerospace Medical Squadron preventive medicine section supervisor.
"The best way to prepare yourself for flu season is to get [vaccinated] each year," said Braun-Simon. "An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your chances of getting the flu and spreading it to others."
Braun-Simon said the human body starts to develop antibodies within two weeks of receiving the vaccination and immunity can last from six to nine months.
Although the virus is always changing, Braun-Simon said one thing is constant - it is never too soon to start preparing for flu season.
"Pregnant women, young children, adults over the age of 65 and people with medical conditions including asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease are at a high risk for developing flu-related complications making it of utmost importance to take proper preventative measures," said Braun-Simon.
"Annual vaccination is recommended for everyone six months or older and it is especially important to get vaccinated if you, someone you live with or someone you care for is at a high risk for developing flu-related complications."
Braun-Simon said In addition to vaccination, there are a few prevention methods to maintain health:
Wash hands regularly - Keeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Watch the face - Keep hands clear of the eyes, nose and mouth. Germs can spread by touch and can be transferred from surfaces that carry the virus.
Cover that cough - When coughing or sneezing, make sure to use a tissue or a shirt sleeve at the inside of the elbow.
Stay healthy - Eating right, exercising, drinking plenty fluids and managing stress contribute to keeping individuals healthy during the flu season.
Keep back - Although all members of Joint Base Langley-Eustis are essential in carrying out the mission, it's important that individuals take care of themselves if they are affected by the flu, and stay away from those who are not ill.
Even with the use of all preventative measures, it's still possible to catch the flu. If this happens, Braun-Simon said sometimes the best remedy is rest.
"If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities," she said. "Following these steps will help stop the spread of the virus and help break the chain of infection."
For more information, call the 633rd Public Health clinic at 764-6731 or the McDonald Army Health Center immunization clinic at 314-7673.