FluMist available now in the KMC

Traditional flu shot available in October

FluMist seasonal influenza vaccinations are now available in the KMC, said officials at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
FluMist, an influenza vaccine in nasal spray form, will be the vaccine of choice for those ages 2 to 49. FluMist is available to walk-in patients at:

• LRMC Allergy and Immunization Clinic (Ward 11D) from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• LRMC Pediatric Clinic (Ward 9A) from 1 to 3 p.m. weekdays, except Tuesdays.
• Kleber Clinic, beginning Tuesday,  from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.
• LRMC Health Fair on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at LRMC in the Heaton Auditorium.

The more traditional flu shot, which is expected to be available in mid-October, will still be administered to those who are younger (6 months to 2 years old) those older than 49 and those for whom FluMist is not recommended, such as pregnant women, people with asthma and active wheezing, or those with long-term medical conditions.

It takes about two weeks for your body to build immunity to the virus, so sooner is better than later to receive your vaccination, said Col. Theresa Moser, chief of the Force Health Protection Office, Europe Regional Medical Command. Colonel Moser has oversight of this year’s immunization program.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes guidelines for influenza vaccinations, and the Army will follow those guidelines in its annual campaign.
For more general information on influenza and the benefits of receiving the annual vaccination, visit the CDC’s Web site at  www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm.
Members of the active force can expect to receive information about flu vaccinations from their units. Other beneficiaries should watch for announcements about local vaccination programs in their garrison newspapers and local AFN affiliates in the coming weeks, or contact their clinic for instructions.

(Courtesy of LRMC Public Affairs)