Seasonal flu vaccines now available

  • Published
  • By Airman Jenna K. Caldwell
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The 22nd Medical Group recently received a shipment of seasonal influenza vaccinations and is now administering them to active-duty service members.

Influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause serious difficulties, particularly to young children and older adults. All McConnell service members are required to get the vaccine.

"It is the most effective way to prevent flu complications," said 1st Lt. Aden Acklin, 22nd MDG medical logistics readiness flight commander. "If you are in a high-risk category, it's strongly encouraged you get a flu shot and inoculate yourself against the risk of death."

Though vaccines are available at the base clinic now, due to demand and availability throughout the flu season, they are currently being administered to medical staff and active-duty military members. 

"There are two different types of flu vaccines available this season, a nasal spray and an injection," said Senior Airman Jesenia Calderon, 22nd Medical Operations Squadron allergy immunization technician. "The flu shot is recommended for all age groups six months and older and the flu mist is limited to those between the ages of two to 49 years."


At the moment, anybody age six and older can get an influenza vaccination from a Tricare-authorized  off-base pharmacy.  The vaccine must be given by a pharmacist to be covered--vaccines given at urgent cares or "Take Care Clinics" are not covered.  And they can bring their receipt to the base clinic to update their profile.

The McConnell Immunization Clinic is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information, call the immunization clinic at (316)-759-5054.