52nd MDG offers flu shots Published Nov. 19, 2007 the 52nd Medical Group SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- It's that time of year again to get an influenza vaccination, commonly known as the flu shot. Anyone six months of age and older is encouraged to get a flu vaccination. The flu is an infectious respiratory disease that affects millions of people each year. Its symptoms include sore throat, dry cough, fever, extreme fatigue, muscle aches and stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If one succumbs to the flu, there are numerous complications that can occur including bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. The single best way to prevent getting the seasonal flu is to receive your flu shot. In addition to receiving a flu shot, good hygiene is essential to avoid exposure; frequent hand washing or using instant hand sanitizer, and covering your mouth/nose when sneezing/coughing limit flu transmission. The 52nd Medical Group recommends all beneficiaries six months and older receive a flu shot as soon as possible. The 52nd MDG will provide walk in flu vaccinations at either the Spangdahlem Immunizations Clinic in building 137 from 7:30 a.m. to noon, and 1 - 4 p.m., or the Bitburg Pediatric Clinic in building 61 from 8 - 11 a.m. and 1 - 3:30 p.m. Both clinics are closed on holidays, wing down days and training days. For more information about the influenza vaccine, call the Immunizations Clinic at 06565-61-8382 or 452-8382 or contact your primary care manager at 06565-61-8333 or 452-8333.