Flu vaccines available on Peterson Published Sept. 30, 2008 By Master Sgt. D. Todd Norman 21st Medical Operations Squadron PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- The end of summer signals the start of snowy weather, winter holidays and - worst of all - flu season. The 21st Medical Group has kicked off the flu season by vaccinating its active duty members. Flu vaccinations will be available at the Peterson AFB Auditorium on Oct. 2 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Bldg. 350 in the Atrium on Oct. 3 from 8 p.m. to Noon and again at the auditorium on Oct. 17 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. FluMist is currently available for Tri-care beneficiaries two to 49 years old not falling into the high risk category. Anyone who falls into a high-risk group i.e. people who have weakened immune systems, are pregnant, have long-term health problems, or are more than 49 years old - will receive the flu shot. NOTE: Pregnant women will not be given the current vaccine. An approved vaccine for pregnant women is expected soon and details for receiving will be forthcoming. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and, at times, lead to death. Every year in the United States, on average, 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications; and about 36,000 people die from the flu. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. There are two types of vaccines: the flu shot, an inactivated vaccine - containing killed virus - that is given with a needle, and the nasal-spray flu vaccine, a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu. Other than getting vaccinated, people can stay healthy by washing their hands regularly. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five days after becoming sick. Call the Flu-Line at 556-3588 for questions or concerns about the vaccines or call 556-2273 to leave a message for a primary care provider. (Information gathered from the Centers for Disease Control. For additional information go to www.cdc.gov/flu.)