SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --
The technicians in the 4th Fighter Wing's immunizations clinic are preparing Team Seymour Airmen for the fight downrange by implementing the concepts of the Anthrax Vaccine Immunization Program here.
These shots are mandatory for all Airmen deploying to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility or who have a permanent change of station to Korea.
"Vaccination is a critical aspect of protection against anthrax," said Lt. Col. Carol Fisher, 4th Aeromedical Dental Squadron commander. "Weaponized anthrax spores are colorless, odorless, tasteless and difficult to detect. Once symptoms occur, even if a person receives antibiotic treatment, the lethality rate is still about 45 to 80 percent."
According to Colonel Fisher, the clinic must update the 4th Medical Group Anthrax Registry Agreement with the Military Vaccine Agency, which will allow the clinic to give anthrax shots under the current program. There is also an emphasis on educating the 4th MDG healthcare personnel on recent modifications to the AVIP.
The health and safety of Team Seymour Airmen is the top concern for base leadership and they consider it essential to fully prepare Airmen to take on a threat that is deadly and real.
"The bacteria that causes anthrax forms spores with a tough protective coat that allows them to survive in the environment for decades," Colonel Fisher said. "You could inhale anthrax and not even know it. Ninety-nine percent of inhalation anthrax is fatal if left untreated."
The vaccination schedule consists of six shots over an 18-month period of time, according to Colonel Fisher. The first three shots are administered during the first four weeks. The final three in the series are given at the six-, 12- and 18-month marks. There is also a follow-up booster shot annually to keep the immunization up to date.
The vaccine is safe and effective, but ensured safety against a lethal danger doesn't come without side effects.
"A burning sensation may occur for about a minute after getting the shot," Colonel Fisher said. "Other side effects can include soreness, redness, itching and swelling at the injection site."
In addition to the policy making anthrax shots mandatory for deploying members, the Department of Defense also included a voluntary aspect for those who have already had at least one dose of the vaccine to continue taking the injections.
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'What You Need To Know About Anthrax Vaccine.'