Flu vaccine: Best protection against illnesses Published Aug. 29, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Tia King Allergy and Immunizations Clinic JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The flu vaccine is available immediately for patients at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C., and the Pentagon, Arlington, Va. The Malcolm Grow Medical Clinic here will have this season's flu vaccine drive for all Department of Defense Tricare beneficiaries 18 years of age and older at the Community Activities Center in building 1442 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 26, 27 and Oct. 3. "The flu vaccine is mandatory for all military members and must be received no later than Jan. 1, 2013," said Maj. Troy Baker, 779th Medical Group Allergy and Immunizations Clinic chief. "If you miss the flu line drive, all active duty military members and eligible beneficiaries can get their shots at their primary care office where they are currently enrolled, or the Allergy and Immunizations Clinic; however, there may be longer wait times," said Baker. According to the Centers for Disease Control, flu-related illnesses in the United States result in approximately 95 million infections, 25 million doctor visits, 200,000 hospitalizations and on average 36,000 deaths annually. The best method of protection for you against the flu is to receive your annual influenza vaccine. This vaccine is updated every year to best match the predicted circulating virus strains. The timing of flu activity is unpredictable and varies each flu season. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States during winter months, but flu illness can occur at anytime. "The Centers for Disease Control has recommended that all citizens protect themselves by receiving a flu vaccine as soon as it is available," said Baker. Anyone can become ill to the flu virus, but there are particular groups who are more vulnerable to the illness. "Children younger than 5, and adults 65 years of age and older are particularly susceptible to the flu illness. Other high risk individuals include pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, heart disease, blood disorders, kidney disorders and people with weakened immune systems due to disease or medication use," said Baker. To take advantage of this opportunity or for more information contact the Allergy and Immunizations Clinic on base at 240-857-7426.