Sheppard Immunization Clinic extends hours to kick off flu vaccinations Published Sept. 14, 2011 By Natalie Henderson Army & Air Force Exchange Service SHEPPARD AFB, Texas -- Flu vaccinations will be available for all active duty, dependents and retirees at the Sheppard Immunization Clinic beginning Sept. 19. No appointment necessary!! The Sheppard Air Force Base Immunization Clinic is offering extended hours Sept. 19-23. The Immunization Clinic will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. to administer the flu vaccination. These extended hours will better meet the needs of working beneficiaries and school age children. Please note that beginning Sept. 26, flu shots will continue to be available during normal business hours - Monday through Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with shortened hours Wednesday for training: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Influenza is a contagious disease that can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, dehydration and bacterial infection. The flu is more serious than cold symptoms. Symptoms of the flu can be severe and can last 1 to 2 weeks. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches and fatigue. Flu germs are spread mainly through coughing and sneezing, which can spray droplets through the air. These drops can find their way into the mouths and noses of people nearby. They can also end up on surfaces that people touch before they touch their nose, mouth or eyes. It is important to wash your hands often and well. Keep an alcohol-based hand sanitizer handy for times when soap and water are not available. When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue, or if you don't have a tissue, use your upper sleeve. For questions, please call the Immunization Clinic at 676-3757.