Limited flu shots available to eligible civilian, contractors Published Oct. 19, 2016 By 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The 66th Medical Squadron Public Health office, in partnership with the Bedford Board of Health, will provide 250 flu shots to eligible members of the workforce Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the base theater. To participate, those interested must complete the flu shot registration form at www.AFMCwellness.com. Federal and contractor employees are required to provide a copy of the completed registration form and a copy of their health insurance information prior to receiving the flu shot. “An annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against influenza, avoiding illness that can sometimes be severe enough to lead to hospitalization and even death,” said Capt. James Caviness, chief of Public Health. “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months get an annual flu vaccine.” The following insurance plans will be accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Celticare, Cigna, Harvard Pilgrim, Health New England, Fallon, MassHealth, Neighborhood Health Plan, Network Health, Tufts and Unicare. Although Caviness encourages those interested to complete the registration form ahead of time, registration forms will also be available on site the day of the clinic. Employees without one of the listed insurance plans may also receive the vaccination for $20 via cash or check (payable to the Town of Bedford). TriCare beneficiaries are not eligible to participate in this screening, but can visit www.tricare.mil/flu to find a participating network pharmacy in their area. TriCare beneficiaries may also contact the 66th Medical Squadron at 781-225-6789 for more information. For further information about this event, contact Caviness at 781-225-6236 or by email at james.caviness.2@us.af.mil.