FORT KNOX, Ky. — Summer temperatures have begun to drop, signaling flu season just around the corner.
To combat this annual spike, Fort Knox has put forth a plan to ensure all community members are able to receive flu vaccines. At the forefront of this campaign is the Fort Knox Medical Department Activity.
Taking in the needs of the community and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization, MEDDAC has strategically established vaccination sites, dates and timeframes for all Fort Knox personnel.
“Vaccination dates are based on the fiscal year,” said Capt. Bernadette Bell, MEDDAC chief of Army Public Health Nursing. “For Army personnel, for example, they can go and get a shot today, but it will not count until Oct. 1.”
The first group of personnel will receive vaccines starting Oct. 3, which includes all medical personnel within the medical and dental facilities. Following medical personnel, military personnel will be vaccinated Oct. 10-19; civilian employees in key, emergency essential and mission essential positions will be vaccinated on Oct. 23 and 24; the remainder of the eligible Fort Knox population can be vaccinated Oct. 26-Dec. 7.
In addition to receiving the vaccine, Bell recommends that personnel “stay home if you are sick, wash your hands, and practice proper hygiene -- all the normal stuff you should be doing.”
Bell also stressed the importance of registering with the Medical Records Department at Ireland Army Health Clinic for those who are not already registered with the new MHS Genesis medical system. This can be done at vaccination sites, but could take up to 20-30 minutes, according to Bell.
The MEDDAC team has also teamed up with other organizations on post, as they have in the past, to further extend their reach. In coordination with Fort Knox MWR Directorate, MEDDAC will provide a vaccination site at Caruso Sports Complex Oct. 27, 3-6 p.m., prior to the start of the annual “Balloween” trunk-or-treat event.
“The intent is for parents to come bring their kids by right after school or any time prior to the event,” Bell said.
To stay updated on specific dates, times and locations, reach out to unit, command or organizational leadership, or follow the Ireland Army Health Clinic Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/IrelandACH/.
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