Naval Hospital Bremerton recently wrapped up an H1N1 Influenza vaccinations shot-exercise for all military beneficiaries. The seven-day inoculation event, with seasonal influenza vaccinations also available, was held at the hospital’s Health and Education Center on Naval Base Kitsap Bangor, Jan. 13-19. 

Preventive medicine personnel, augmented by volunteers, gave 1,879 H1N1 vaccinations, along with 64 Seasonal Flu shot. They also administered another 439 H1N1 vaccinations to various tenant commands during the week-long event.

“We actually had a steady flow of people,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Ana DeSouza, preventive medicine technician, who noted that the toughest part of their entire evolution was the extra time to input all the data into the computer on those who received their immunizations. “Having other staff members volunteer to help out was really helpful. We would not have been able to stay on top of everything.”

For those who missed the week-long event, H1N1 and Seasonal flu vaccinations are still being given at NHB’s Branch Health Clinics as well as the immunization clinic in Family Medicine.

“Our response to the demand was very good and the Preventive Medicine team with the volunteers helping them made all the difference in handling the volume of people requiring vaccinations,” said Capt. Dan Frederick, CNRNW and NHB Population Health Emergency Officer. “This was a great opportunity to partner with the local county public health office to share knowledge, resources and support. Kudos to Kitsap County Health District for helping us in getting vaccines for those considered high risk such as front line health care workers. We are very pleased with them and the strong working relationship established.”

Overall, compiled statistics show that approximately 14,800 doses have been given for Seasonal and H1N1 vaccine by the Preventive Medicine staff. “When you add the NHB Immunization Clinic, it will probably push up to around 20, 000,” calculated Blaine Brock, Preventive Medicine Department environmental health officer.