Flu shot

Daisy Bolden, R.N., is ready to give flu shots to Tinker civilian workers who come to the Occupational Medicine Clinic in Bldg. 3334 for the free vaccine. When not administering the shots in the facility Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. and 2 to 3 p.m., medical staff travel to various scheduled locations on base to give the shots. (Air Force photo by Margo Wright)

Flu shots available to civilians

Published Nov. 27, 2012
By Brandice J. O'Brien
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Flu shots are still available.

At no cost, flu shots are available to civilian employees. Walk-ins are welcome between 10 and 11 a.m., and, 2 and 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Occupational Medicine Clinic, Bldg. 3334.

"Influenza can be a serious illness that may lead to hospitalization," said Irma Sewell, 72nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron Occupational Medicine Flight deputy commander. "Every flu season is different and influenza infection may affect people in different ways."
The shots are not guaranteed to prevent the flu. But, they are a worthwhile defense as experts study trends and try to predict which influenza strains will be prominent in the upcoming season. These strains are used to make the vaccine so that people are protected against them through vaccination, said Lt. Col. Clay Baldwin, Occupational Medicine Flight commander.

If interested in obtaining the shot, individuals are required to show their government identification and complete an adult screening form before receiving the immunization.
The flu vaccines are available while supplies last. For more information, call the OMF clinic at 734-3413.