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YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — The 65th Medical Brigade will begin its H1N1 vaccination campaign Nov. 8, with a focus on those most at risk of the H1N1 flu virus: pregnant women, children, teenagers and those with chronic medical conditions.
Active Duty Family Members may receive the H1N1 vaccine at Brian Allgood Clinic on Yongsan Garrison and medical facilities at Camp Casey, Camp Stanley, Camp Red Cloud, Camp Walker and Humphreys Garrison from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. this Sunday. Due to vaccine arriving later than expected, immunizations for families planned for Nov. 6 were postponed.
From Nov. 9 - 25, excluding weekends and Veterans’ Day, Active Duty Family Members may receive the H1N1 during extended clinic hours (4 p.m. - 6 p.m.) at the following military treatment facilities: Yongsan Garrison's Brian Allgood Clinic, Camp Casey, Camp Walker and Humphreys Garrison. The H1N1 Vaccine will be also available at Area Retiree Health Fairs occurring over the next few weeks. Units should coordinate with their local Military Treatment Facility for Active Duty Service Member immunizations.
Seventh Air Force at Osan Air Base is vaccinating active duty service members 24/7 until 3 p.m. Friday, 6 November. Airmen who have had their vaccination by this time can receive immunizations during normal duty hours. Family members will be vaccinated once active duty immunizations are complete.
“The threat of H1N1 affecting USFK readiness and the health of our service members, families, and DoD civilians is very real,” said Col. Jeff Clark, 65th Medical Brigade Commander and Command Surgeon, United States Forces Korea. “Although the vast majority of H1N1cases are mild, all are at risk of severe illness. The H1N1 vaccine is very safe, very effective, the single most effective way to protect against the H1N1 virus, and we will recieve plenty of it. By protecting our USFK community, we are also helping to protect our local Republic of Korea communities.”
The Department of Defense purchased only the injectable vaccine. Thus, the flumist (nasal spray) will not be available.
“Per the CDC, this vaccine was produced to the same high standards as the seasonal vaccine which we have used safely for years. The injectable vaccine does not contain live virus. The downside is everyone will receive the shot rather than the nasal spray many have become accustomed to,” said Clark.
The goal is for all Service Members, Family Members and DoD Civilians to be immunized before Thanksgiving. USFK Service Members will be required to have the immunization by Nov. 25. In keeping with CDC guidelines, initial focus will be on those most at risk (pregnant women, children, those with chronic disease); then Service Members and DoD Civilians. Unlike seasonal flu, younger individuals are a most risk of severe H1N1 infection.
Clark encourages everyone to practice good hygiene to slow the spread of the H1N1 virus. People are encouraged to wash hands frequently with soap and water and to stay home from work or school if you are sick to prevent the spread of the virus.
“When coughing or sneezing cover your mouth and nose by using your sleeve and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth,” Clark said.
Additional information can be obtained by visiting the 65th MED BDE website at www.korea.amedd.army.mil; the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Website at ww
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