Immunizations educates Iceman community Published Aug. 22, 2012 By Senior Airman Janine Thibault 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- At the beginning of the 20th century 50,000 people died of smallpox, which was later eradicated in 1979. Polio was eliminated from the western hemisphere in 1944, but is still present in other areas of the world. While new improvements are still being made with immunizations, vaccines are not a new occurrence. August is Immunization Awareness Month, helping remind people of the importance of updating their shot records and maintaining an active role in their health. Throughout the month, the 354th Medical Operations Squadron is highlighting the importance of educating clinic patrons about the role of vaccinations, especially within a small community like Eielson. Special attention is paid to this premier practice of preventative medicine in the hopes that people will take that time to learn more and get the necessary updates they need to stay healthy. "History illustrates the risks of allowing disease to spread unchecked and also shows the potential vaccines carry to eliminate the disease altogether with a dedicated immunizations program," said Tech. Sgt. Terrell Kelley, 354th MDOS family health and immunizations flight chief. "Through the use of vaccinations, the immunizations clinic has been able to save the lives of many people every year." The clinic staff works toward its main goal of preventative treatment by immunizing people before they are exposed to disease. Even when an individual feels healthy, they should still receive the vaccine. "It all starts with education," said Kelley. "We know there are people who have adverse opinions about vaccines, and we are willing to educate the population on them. We let people know what to expect from the vaccines, what they provide, who should get them and contraindications, and we are more than capable and equipped to do that." Vaccines play a strong role in ensuring Icemen are healthy and invulnerable to infection. Each year, there is a large-scale initiative implemented with the goal of getting everyone vaccinated prior to flu season. Being immunized gives someone the best chances of avoiding infection and the resulting symptoms. An individual who does not want to be vaccinated can jeopardize the health of people around them. For some people, a moment's discomfort may be a major obstacle in their pursuit for health. Providing care for apprehensive and fearful children can even be difficult for immunizations staff. "It's better to make them cry with a shot than to listen to them with whooping cough or other diseases that can really scar them," said Capt. Justin Whitaker, 354th MDOS public health flight commander. For more information, talk to your medical provider or a public health medical technician at 377-6659.