Flu season: Controlling the bug Published Oct. 8, 2010 By 82nd Medical Group SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- As flu season draws near, this year's vaccine will protect against the 2009 H1N1 and two other influenza viruses. All active duty members are required to receive their vaccination at the Sheppard Clinic. Family members, retirees and civilians are highly encouraged to get this year's vaccine as the first line of defense against the flu. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache 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. Germs can also end up on surfaces that people touch such as door handles, faucets and phones after they touch their nose, mouth or eyes. According to the Center for Disease Control, those at highest risk for serious flu complications include anyone 65 years and older, children younger than 5 years old, pregnant women and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. The best possible methods to stop the spread of germs: - Frequently wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. - If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable wipes or gel sanitizers. - Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing or cough into your sleeve. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you know your hands are clean. For additional information, visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm. Currently, the Sheppard Clinic does not have mass doses of the flu vaccine available. As the vaccine comes in, units will be notified for clinic scheduling. Family members and retirees wanting early vaccination are authorized to get the vaccine at local area pharmacies at no cost as listed below. TRICARE authorizes flu vaccinations at local pharmacies Don't miss your opportunity to get an early flu vaccination. Family members and retirees can now receive flu vaccinations at local area pharmacies at no cost. Vaccinations must be administered by a certified pharmacist to qualify for no cost. To get your flu vaccination, present your military ID card at any of the following local pharmacies: - Albertsons - English Pharmacy - Trott's Callfield Drug - Guffe's Drug - All CVS Pharmacies - All United Market Street Pharmacies - All Walgreens Pharmacies Currently Wal-Mart does not have a pharmacist administering the vaccination. Anyone using this facility will incur a cost associated with the vaccination. For additional information on vaccine availability, contact the Immunization Clinic at (940) 676-3757.