42nd Medical Group prepares for flu immunizations Published Sept. 18, 2009 By Maj. David Sanchez and Tech. Sgt. Nicole Aly 42nd Medical Group MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The 42nd Medical Group Immunizations Clinic is prepared to protect the base population from seasonal influenza, or flu. This year's influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent infection and complications associated with the virus. The Centers for Disease Control, or CDC, recommends everyone 6 months of age and older receive the seasonal influenza vaccination each year. New this year is an additional vaccine against the H1N1 strain of influenza will also be mandatory for all active-duty and mobilized reservists. Two different forms of seasonal influenza vaccines are available each year. The intranasal form of the vaccine is called FluMist and contains weakened live influenza viruses. FluMist is recommended for healthy individuals, 2-49 years of age. Individuals who have heart disease, lung disease, asthma, kidney disease, metabolic disorders or blood disorders should not receive FluMist. The second form of influenza vaccine is the injected form. The injected vaccine contains inactivated/dead viruses and should be given to those individuals who cannot receive the FluMist because of age restrictions or medical conditions. Currently, the H1N1 flu vaccine is still in development. The Food and Drug Administration is conducting safety trials for this new vaccine, and projects that it will be ready by mid October. New research shows that one dose of the new H1N1 vaccine is enough to provide sufficient immunity. More information will be published as additional details become available. The 42nd MDG expects an adequate supply of seasonal influenza vaccine this year. High risk active-duty and base first responders are the initial priority to receive the seasonal vaccine. Updated information regarding prioritization and administration of both the seasonal and H1N1 influenza vaccinations will be updated as information and vaccine supplies become available. In addition, this information is always available by calling the Immunizations Clinic's message line at 953-5731.