LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza viruses are constantly changing, meaning the timing, severity and length of the season marked with congested noses, sneezes and coughs varies from one year to the next.
The CDC said the best way to prevent the illness is to get vaccinated each year. The human body will start to develop antibodies within two weeks of receiving the vaccination and immunity can last from six to nine months.
Flu vaccinations are set to be available at Fort Eustis on Oct. 17 and 31 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Oct. 24 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Langley Air Force Base has already begun immunizations for first responders, and will continue vaccinating active-duty personnel and Department of Defense employees inside the U.S. Air Force Hospital Langley atrium at the following times:
Sept. 25 and 27 from 6 to 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 4 to 6 p.m.
A vaccination schedule for beneficiaries will be announced at a later date.
Although the specifics are always changing, the CDC says one thing is constant - it is never too soon to start preparing for flu season.
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.
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.
Be sure to check the JBLE website and Facebook page in the upcoming weeks for flu vaccination information and updates.
For more information on the importance of the flu vaccine, call the 663rd Public Health clinic at 764-6731 or the McDonald Army Health Center Immunization clinic at 314-7673.