Flu shots available Published Nov. 21, 2018 By Senior Airman Melissa Estevez 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Flu shots are available at the 375th Medical Operations Squadron’s immunization flight for all service members and their beneficiaries on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. The goal is to have 90 percent of Team Scott vaccinated by Dec. 15. No appointment is necessary. Just stop by the medical treatment facility any time from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. According to the CDC the exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but influenza activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although activity can last as late as May. “Vaccinations are important for the protection of yourself, your family, your coworkers, everyone you are around,” Staff Sgt. Kelly Davis, 375th Medical Operations Squadron immunization back-up technician. Davis said that infants depend on the adults and other children around them to have vaccinations. Some vaccinations cannot be given until 6-months-old to a year, leaving the infant exposed to their surroundings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends yearly flu vaccination for people six months and older. The flu can cause children more damage than the common cold. Each year the flu threatens the health and well-being of children and their families. Annual influenza vaccinations are the best method for preventing flu and its potentially severe complications in children. People at High Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications: Children younger than 5-years-old, but especially children younger than 2-years-old Adults 65 years of age and older Pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum) Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities American Indians and Alaska Natives seem to be at higher risk of flu complications People with prior medical conditions Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. The flu can also make chronic health problems worse.[DTJMUA3A1] “If we can protect our members from getting sick or ill and keep our coworkers working that’s what we need them to do, Davis said.” The Scott Immunizations Clinic offers vaccine services for active duty, retirees and family members to include deployment and travel vaccines. Walk-in services are provided during normal business hours for routine vaccines. Yellow Fever and Smallpox are offered by appointment only. Please see Public Health prior to immunizations for required vaccinations regarding foreign travel. For more information regarding immunizations visit https://www.cdc.gov/ or contact the 375th MDG’s immunization department at 256-7132. What immunizations are required? For Active Duty: Hepatitis A: Two shot series, with vaccinations spaced 6 months apart Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertusis (TDAP): Once every 10 years Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Two-shot series good for life once completed, usually given during childhood. Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): Three shot series for adults good for life, usually given during childhood. Influenza (Flu): Annual requirement for all active duty For Pediatrics: 2 months: DTaP, Hep B, IPV, HiB, Prevnar, Rotavirus 4 months: DTaP, Hep B, IPV, HiB, Prevnar, Rotavirus 6 months: DTaP, Hep B, IPV, Prevnar, Rotavirus 12 months: MMR, VZV, Hep A, Prevnar, HIB, PPD (if in daycare) 18 months: Hep A 4 years: MMR, DTaP, IPV, PPD (if high risk) [DTJMUA3A1]Sidebar box.