Immunizations key for healthy servicemembers, families Published Aug. 6, 2008 By Gerry J. Gilmore American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Obtaining proper immunizations against disease is a key factor in sustaining the health of servicemembers, military retirees and their families, senior defense health officials say. "As an infectious disease doctor, I've always felt that a vaccine is that ultimate victory in our war against bugs," Dr. Michael E. Kilpatrick, the Military Health System's deputy director for force health protection and readiness programs, said at the Pentagon's DiLorenzo Tricare Health Clinic during the military's Immunization Awareness Month kick-off ceremony Aug. 5. The military's immunization awareness program mirrors National Immunization Month, which is observed across America each August, and reminds servicemembers, retirees and their families to safeguard their health by keeping their shot records up to date. "I think this month we really want to focus on the full spectrum, from the newborn to the older person, and the importance of vaccines and understanding when those are due throughout your life," Doctor Kilpatrick said. Defense Department officials work hard to offer less-reactive, comfortable vaccines that provide tremendous protection for servicemembers, military retirees and their families, Doctor Kilpatrick said. August is a good time to remind adults to check their personal and children's shot records, Doctor Kilpatrick noted, because school will soon begin and the flu season follows soon afterward. Obtaining an annual flu shot remains an important measure, he pointed out, noting that about 36,000 Americans die from the flu each year. The American military has been in the vaccine business for a long time, Doctor Kilpatrick said. Continental Army commander Gen. George Washington, he said, ordered that his troops be inoculated against smallpox during the Revolutionary War. Today, he added, the military's vaccination program protects overseas-deployed troops against potential biological threats such as anthrax and smallpox. Pneumonia vaccine shots provided to older military retirees and their families also are extremely important and are known to save lives, he added. Yet, "because we have the vaccines doesn't mean they get used," Doctor Kilpatrick said. Programs like Immunization Month are important, Doctor Kilpatrick said, because they remind hospitals and clinics to activate customers to obtain needed vaccines. "Are you up to date on your shots?" Doctor Kilpatrick asked. The DiLorenzo clinic provides vaccinations to about 17,000 servicemembers, defense civilians and contractors who work at the Pentagon, said Army Col. Dale K. Block, the clinic's commander. Keeping immunization records current "is a big deal," Colonel Block said, noting it affects force readiness as well as the individual health of servicemembers, retirees and their families. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page