VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Influenza, commonly called the flu, is an active viral disease of the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu is characterized by fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches and stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The best treatment is prevention. The 71st Medical Group at Vance AFB and TRICARE officials are recommending beneficiaries get their flu shots as early as possible this season and have begun the 2011 vaccination drive. The 71st MDG is targeting 100 percent vaccination of Vance beneficiaries by November.

Go to the 71st MDG Immunization Clinic to receive your flu vaccination at your earliest convenience. No appointment is necessary. For more information, contact the Immunization Clinic at 213-7209.

Seasonal influenza epidemics occur annually in the United States. Estimates of influenza-related events include 95 million infections, 25 million physician visits, 200,000 hospitalizations, and on average, 36,000 deaths annually in the United States.

Influenza also contributes to cardiac events, premature births and low birth weight infants.

Immunization is the key to seasonal influenza prevention. Influenza vaccine can reduce the risk of cardiac events in persons with cardiac risk factors, as well as the incidence of premature or low birth weight infants.

The Advisory Committee on Immunizations Practices has issued a universal recommendation for influenza for all adults and children older than 6 months of age. High risk groups should be targeted for immunization, but immunizing healthy persons is also recommended. Immunization is mandatory for all active duty members.

Flu is spread mainly from person to person by respiratory droplets expelled during talking, laughing, coughing or sneezing. Flu can also be spread by touching contaminated objects and then touching one's nose or mouth.

There are two types of influenza vaccines: inactivated, or "killed," given by injection; and "live," given through a nasal spray. The live vaccine is more effective and highly recommended for healthy beneficiaries. In clinical studies, there has been no statistically significant difference noted in the rate of side effects between the injection and the nasal spray.

Everyday flu-preventive steps include covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throwing the tissue away. If tissue is not available, sneeze or cough into your elbow. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 to 20 seconds especially after you cough or sneeze. Avoid contact with people who are sick.

If you get the flu stay home from work or school. Stay away from others to avoid exposure and potential spread of illness. Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth to avoid spreading germs.

For more information on the flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/.