FORT BENNING, Ga. - We've noticed a bit of warmer weather lately, lots of rain and generally people are starting to think about spring. This doesn't mean that the flu season has left us behind. In fact, January 10 to16, marked National Immunization Week and the general campaign not only focused on recommended immunizations, but also on H1N1 and seasonal flu.

"People need to keep in mind, we are not out of the influenza window yet. Everyone needs to remain vigilant in the basic preventative steps such as washing their hands, using hand sanitizer and coughing into a tissue or into their elbow sleeves," said COL Kyle Campbell, chief of staff at the Medical Department Activity.

The hospital launched its seasonal flu and H1N1 education and prevention campaigns in the early fall and because of the great preventative measures taken by inspired leaders, Soldiers and family members, Fort Benning had the lowest rate of febrile illness for trainees for the months of October through December 2009.

"We must continue to take care of, and protect, each other by routinely performing the preventative steps and obtaining the appropriate vaccinations," Campbell said.

Martin Army Community Hospital is offering the seasonal flu and H1N1 to all eligible patients. Target groups are : children younger than 5, but especially younger than 2 years old, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people who have: asthma, neurological and neurodevelopmental, chronic lung disease, heart disease, blood disorders, weakened immune system due to disease or medication and all others who would like their H1N1 and seasonal flu immunization.

All immunizations (routine, well child, H1N1 and seasonal flu) now are being scheduled on an appointment basis. Patients are asked to bring their immunization record to their appointment. By scheduling an appointment, the health care practitioner can review records and create a complete immunization record. To schedule an appointment, please call 544-2273.