Immunization Awareness

For this blog, I will write about everyone’s favorite medical procedure, immunizations. Ok, maybe not everyone’s favorite, but a subject that everyone should be aware of. As exciting as vaccines may sound, immunizations do not have much preparation. However, JBM-HH Army Community Service (ACS) would still like for all Soldiers and their Family Members to know about the immunization process including when to receive vaccinations.

An Andrew Rader US Army Health Clinic representative was able to shed some light on which vaccines are mandatory for Soldiers, what vaccines they administer, and a website with information about vaccinations at the Rader Clinic. All Active Duty Military Soldiers are required to receive the following vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, and Influenza. Only four shots, that’s not bad, right? Although Soldiers are only obligated to obtain four vaccinations, the Rader Clinic can administer additional immunizations such as rabies, polio, and pneumococcal conjugate. If having thoughts about covering all bases and acquiring extra vaccines, then stop by the Rader Clinic or view the Rader Clinic website for more information.

There is no intricate science or criteria behind preparing to receive a vaccination, but there is useful information to know before, during, and after an immunization procedure. First, call your clinic to verify the operation and appointment hours. Second, make sure the particular vaccine needed is administered on site. For example, flu shots are administered seasonal, therefore confirming ahead of time may save you a trip. Third, wear loose clothing, short or no sleeves to aid in the efficiency of the vaccine routine. Fourth, women who are pregnant or planning to be pregnant should inform the health care provider before the vaccine is administered.

Now, if anyone in the Military community is afraid of needles, this section is definitely for you. Schedule your appointment as early as possible. If appointments are not accepted, arrive 15 minutes before the clinic opens. Once at the vaccine destination, relax! Inform the health care provider about your fear of needles, and request someone who regularly works with needle fearing patients. It never hurts to ask, right? When the immunization process begins, do not stare at the needle. Remain calm; focus on an object in the room (like a painting). Breathe normally. If focusing on other objects does not seem to work, try talking to your nurse as he or she administers the vaccine. Before you know it, it will be all over. Before you leave, ask any follow-up questions and for a vaccine schedule to track your current records.

Now that you have been given some tips on the vaccine process, let’s further discuss this topic. Although there are already four imperative vaccines for active duty Soldiers, what vaccines do you think should be mandatory? If you have overcome a fear of needles, tell us some of your pointers for vaccination visits. What do you know about the current vaccinations on the market? Let’s talk, discuss below in the comments!