HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – 66th Medical Squadron officials announced that while they have received only a limited supply of flu vaccines to date, additional amounts are expected in the coming weeks and months.
The clinic is only offering vaccines to children between the ages of 6 to 36 months old, adults over 65 and first responders until additional supplies arrive.
"The flu can be associated with serious illnesses, particularly among very young children and people with certain chronic medical conditions,” said Mark Jenner, 66 MDS group practice manager.
According to clinic officials, TRICARE beneficiaries can receive the flu shot off-base at no cost. The annual flu vaccine is mandatory for all active-duty service members.
For information on receiving the flu shot off-base, visit https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/FluVaccine.
Vaccines are available to TRICARE beneficiaries, excluding those with US Family Health plans. All others are encouraged to contact their provider for flu shot information.
CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine as the first and best way to protect against influenza.
“Due to current health conditions, the Defense Health Agency is also encouraging everyone to get their flu shot as early as possible,” said Jenner.
The clinic has taken steps to protect people from COVID-19 exposure while getting their flu shot. Those steps include modified appointment scheduling, physical distancing and frequent cleaning of surfaces.
Beneficiaries should check with the MDS Immunization Clinic to be sure the vaccine is available before scheduling an appointment.
For further information, or to schedule an appointment, contact the Immunizations Clinic at 781-225-6172.
To learn more about the flu, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html.