Flu prevention key to safe season

Published Feb. 11, 2013
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Active-duty Airmen and their families, civilian employees, retirees and contractors are encouraged to receive a flu shot or mist if they have not already done so.

According to www.flu.gov, vaccination is the best form of prevention, but other steps can also be taken to protect against the flu. Hand washing with soap and water - or an alcohol-based sanitizer - avoiding close contact with sick people, getting plenty of sleep and exercise, along with drinking fluids and eating healthy are also effective ways to avoid getting sick.

Those who do contract the flu are advised to stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever has subsided without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Public health information, available at www.cdc.gov/flu and www.flu.gov, should also be followed.

Flu shots or mists are given on a walk-in basis from 7:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., and from 1 to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information, call the 28th Medical Operations Squadron Immunization Clinic at (605) 385-3365.