Barksdale to battle seasonal flu

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristin High
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. - --  It's that time of year again for coughing, running noses, sore throats and fevers.
It's flu season.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a vaccine each year.

"It's important for eligible Team Barksdale members to be vaccinated," said Staff Sgt. Rashad Holley, 2nd Medical Operations Squadron aerospace medical technician. "The flu is a dangerous illness and without vaccination it could potentially be lethal in some cases."

There are two types of vaccines: the inactivated traditional flu shot and the live attenuated influenza vaccine, commonly known as the nasal mist.

According to the Center for Disease Control, anyone above the age of 6 months can receive the shot. The nasal mist is recommended for healthy individuals ages 2 through 49.

Not everyone can be vaccinated. Some disqualifying factors for the flu shot include anyone who has severe allergies, especially to eggs, has had a bad reaction after a previous vaccine, has had Guillan-Barre Syndrome and those who are moderately or severely ill.

Disqualifying factors for the mist include adults 50 years of age and older; children 6 through 23 months of age; children younger than 5 years with asthma; pregnant women; people with long-term health problems to include heart disease, kidney or liver disease, lung disease, metabolic disease, asthma or anemia; anyone with certain muscle or nerve disorders; and anyone with a weakened immune system.

"Flu vaccinations are mandatory for all active duty members but are highly recommended for everyone," added Holley. "Vaccines are available in the immunizations clinic to active duty members, retirees, dependents and any other beneficiaries."

The immunizations clinic offers flu vaccinations on a walk- in base Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about immunizations, call 456-6740. Or visit the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov.