VICENZA, Italy -- Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. Viruses, like the flu, are not treated with antibiotics and thus the flu season is highly advertised as the time to get immunized against the virus to prevent to spread and impact of the infection.
Flu seasons are unpredictable and have the potential to impact Department of Defense force readiness and mission. In the United States, of the reported 40 million cases, more than 750,000 result in hospitalizations because of serious complications, with up to 50,000 deaths annually.
"The flu spreads through aerosolized respiratory droplets during close contact with an infected person or animal, or through contact with a contaminated object," said Lt. Col. Orlando Ruiz Sosa, chief of Preventive Medicine and Army Public Health Nursing, U.S. Army Health Clinic-Vicenza, which oversees the immunization program.
"I believe that prevention and control of influenza is the key to stop the spread of the virus. This virus can be very dangerous for some individuals," he said.
Ruiz recommends the seasonal influenza vaccine for all people ages six months and older. Those especially at high risk from influenza complications include children younger than five years old, pregnant women, adults 65 years and older and those with certain medical conditions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes guidelines for influenza vaccinations, and the Army will follow those guidelines in its annual campaign.
For more information on influenza and the benefits of receiving the annual vaccination, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/flu.
The vaccine is currently available Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1 to 3:30 p.m., and Wednesdays and Fridays, 8--11 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. at the Immunization Clinic. All individuals should bring their ID card.
Active-duty personnel can get their flu shot through unit-coordinated immunization days.
Those unable to receive the vaccine on scheduled unit days may go to the Readiness Clinic at USAHC-V, Monday-Friday from 8-11 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m. to receive the vaccine.
The DoDEA schools will offer immunizations during school hours as follows (for students and teachers only):
Nov. 1: Vicenza Elementary School
8 a.m.-noon
Nov. 8: Vicenza Middle School
8 a.m.-noon
Nov. 15: Vicenza High School
12:30-3 p.m.
MAKE UP DATE: Nov. 17
Vicenza Elementary School
8 a.m.-noon
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