Naval Hospital Bremerton's (NHB) Preventive Medicine Department will hold the "Beat the Bug, Get Your Flu Shot" annual influenza vaccination clinic, Nov. 6-10.

The vaccinations for uniformed service members, eligible beneficiaries and DoD Civilians who have not yet been vaccinated this year, will be given at NHB's Health and Education Center on Naval Base Kitsap Bangor, 2850 Thresher Ave, on Friday, Nov. 6, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 7 and 8, from noon to 5 p.m., and Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 9 and 10, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The vaccine will also be available in NHB's Immunization Clinic after Nov. 10, on the second floor of the Family Care Center, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

More information may be obtained at the Flu Hotline, (360) 315-4469.

Annual seasonal influenza vaccinations are required for all active duty military personnel, selected reserves and healthcare workers. Navy Medicine's seasonal influenza vaccine immunization program is designed to protect Sailors and Marines, mission-essential healthcare personnel, and eligible beneficiaries.

"Despite there being a group of cases in September, influenza cases have remained at or below baseline levels in the state and in the nation. Historically we've seen cases increase in November while peaking December to March," said Lt. Cmdr. Steven D. Schutt, Preventive Medicine Department head, stressing that the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age and older.

"It is especially important for those individuals who are at higher risk of becoming severely ill from influenza such as older adults, those with chronic health conditions, and young children six months of age and up to get vaccinated," the commander added.

What can people do to protect themselves against the flu virus?
Naval Hospital Bremerton follows CDC recommendations to:
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
* When you are sick, and keep your distance from others to protect them from also getting sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick.
* Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
* Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

General information of seasonal influenza can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.

For more news from Naval Hospital Bremerton, visit http://www.navy.mil/.