USAFE plans for H1N1 vaccine distribution

U.S. Air Forces in Europe continues to plan and prepare to guard the health of Airmen, civilians and family members against numerous health issues, including the H1N1 virus.

The USAFE Command Surgeon General’s office is coordinating with U.S. European Command’s medical depot, U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center – Europe on the appropriate distribution plan for the H1N1 vaccine when it arrives. The initial focus for vaccination efforts will be on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention high-risk priority groups.

“Unlike seasonal flu vaccine supplies, which usually arrive early in the season via large shipments sufficient for the whole population, the H1N1 vaccine will initially have limited availability,” said Lt. Col. Megan McCormick, USAFE Command Public Health officer.

“It’s anticipated to begin arriving at USAFE medical facilities sometime in November,” Colonel McCormick said. “Receipt dates for bases will vary and notifications of availability will be communicated by command information channels, though high-risk patients may also be contacted individually.”

The CDC recommends inclusion of pregnant women in the first series of vaccine distributions. Other priority categories include care providers for children younger than 6 months, health-care providers and first responders. Deploying troops will also be among the first priority groups, due to their elevated risk under austere living conditions and mission-essential status.

“The health and safety of our USAFE community is a priority,” Colonel McCormick said. “Everyone needs to know vaccination plans are in place and being coordinated at every level, and it is expected that supplies will be sufficient so that everyone who wants the vaccine will be able to receive it after those in high-risk groups.”

Flu vaccine available now
The Ramstein Immunizations Clinic now has flu vaccines available for active-duty members, Department of Defense civilians, retirees and dependents in the form of the Flu Mist vaccine. The flu shot will be available for those patients who can’t get the Flu Mist vaccine due to age or current health conditions.

Clinic hours of operation are from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday; and 8 a.m. to noon Thursday.
Mass flu drives are from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16, 17 and 23 at the Hercules Theater on Ramstein.

For more information, call 479-2530 or 06371-46-2530.