By Bruce Russell
Special to GUIDON

Immunizations are one of the most significant public health achievements of the 20th century and have saved millions of lives throughout the world. Immunizations helped to eradicate smallpox worldwide and eliminated poliovirus in the United States. They have also drastically reduced the number of measles, mumps, diphtheria, rubella and other serious diseases. Despite all the efforts to vaccinate everyone, people in the United States still die every year from these and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

It is important to understand that immunizations are an essential component of overall health and wellness. Timely and proper immunizations are a proactive, preventive health care measure that can provide continuous protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. Some of these diseases include: hepatitis A/B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis and influenza. Immunizations are required for all members of the armed forces and are tracked closely by medical personnel to ensure compliance, especially prior to deployment. Nevertheless, it is important for service members to make sure that their Family members and loved ones are also vaccinated appropriately.

There are specific vaccinations for infants and toddlers, as well as new mothers. Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control recommends that all new mothers receive the pertussis, or DTaP, immunization? Prior to entering and returning to school, certain vaccines are also required for school-age children, adolescents and college students.

As for our retirees, the CDC recommends the pneumococcal vaccination for anyone over the age of 65, and highly recommends that older adults get vaccinated for shingles as well. For a complete list of available vaccinations and when they should be administered, check out the Centers for Disease Control website at: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/default.htm

Furthermore, with flu season just around the corner, it is imperative that you get your annual flu (influenza) shot. The good news is that there are no anticipated vaccine shortages this year. Also, in developing its annual flu vaccine, the Food and Drug Administration has included last year’s H1N1 virus in the 2012-2013 seasonal flu vaccine.   Studies have shown that individuals who routinely receive their influenza vaccination will increase their overall protection against this infection. For planning purposes, the anticipated arrival time for the flu vaccine supply is in late August to early September this year and General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital Immunization will begin to administer them upon receipt.  The staff will begin by vaccinating healthcare workers and service members, but anticipate beginning vaccination to all beneficiaries shortly after arrival. The start dates will be published as soon as vaccine arrives.  

Finally, there are many health benefits associated with immunizations. They can prevent a vast number of diseases and illnesses, and can even save your life.  Service members should be proactive about getting their immunizations and making sure that their Family members are up-to-date on all of their immunizations.  Eligible Family members can receive their immunizations at GLWACH’s Immunization Clinic located on the 1st Floor of the hospital. The Immunization Clinic can also be reached at 596.1768.

For more information about immunizations, review the CDC website or speak to your Primary Care Manager.  You can also talk to an Army public health nurse at the Community Health Resource Center at 596.0518.

(Editor’s note: Russell is a public health professional and writes for the General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital.)