01/12/2021
LRAFB PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
TITLE: COVID Vaccinations on Little Rock Air Force Base
SUMMARY: The 19th Medical Group will soon receive a limited quantity of COVID-19 vaccinations. These vaccinations will be distributed in a phased approach in accordance with CDC and DoD guidelines. Phase 1 will include first responders, medical personnel, and other personnel critical to installation operations. For those who are in the highest priority category, the 19th Medical Group is working with your units to schedule you for the opportunity to take the vaccine.
The 19th Medical Group will soon receive its first allocation of the Moderna vaccine, which is administered as a series of two doses 1 month apart. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for emergency use by the FDA in individuals 18 years of age and older. All Active components, Reserve component, TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select beneficiaries, DoD civilians and contract personnel are authorized to receive immunizations from DoD in a prioritized order.
Vaccines against COVID-19 use a gene from the virus, parts of the virus, or inactivated virus. None of these can cause COVID-19. The most commonly reported side effects of the vaccine are irritation at the vaccine site with mild discomfort, swelling and redness; or flu-like symptoms, including muscle soreness, low grade fever and headaches. Any side effects typically present within the first 24-48 hours after vaccination and are usually mild to moderate in severity. Vaccine information sheets will be made available to all vaccine recipients. Personnel receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should not receive other immunizations for 14 days before or after. If you have the choice to get the COVID-19 vaccination or the Flu shot, you are encouraged to take the COVID vaccination while limited quantities last.
Vaccines are among the most important advances in modern medicine. They have saved more lives around the world than any other medical invention, including antibiotics or surgery. The vaccine will dramatically reduce the chance that you will contract COVID-19. While taking the vaccine is voluntary, it will protect you, your coworkers, your family and your community. Achieving community (herd) immunity is dependent on a high percentage of vaccine acceptance by the entire population. Building a community-wide defenses against COVID-19 is a team effort and YOU are a key part of that defense.
For COVID-19 Vaccine related information please visit:
1. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/Moderna.html
For medical related questions, please contact your Primary Care Team by using one of the methods below.
1. Call the appointment line at 501-987-8811
2. Send a secure message through Tricare on Line
https://www.tricareonline.com/tol2/prelogin/desktopIndex.xhtml
