BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Flu season is back and all Individual Reservists (IMAs and PIRRs) must obtain their vaccination by Jan. 1, 2017. Members who receive the flu vaccination from a civilian provider must ensure they submit proper documentation in order to have their Individual Medical Readiness (IMR) updated.
Members must be in duty status to utilize a Military Treatment Facility. Only the inactivated (no live virus) vaccine, administered intramuscularly in those up to age 65, will be provided by MTFs. IRs should note that if they receive the vaccination from a civilian provider, the FluMist form is no longer approved for DoD personnel. Any other form of the Flu vaccine is acceptable. Additionally, the member must provide one of the following documents to their servicing MTF or the HQ RIO/IRM (afrc.rmgsg@us.af.mil):
- Civilian proof of vaccination, or
- a letter from a doctor recommending the vaccine not be received and why.
In accordance with AFI 36-2254, Vol. 1, Reserve Personnel Participation, if a Reservist's IMR status turns red (overdue), their HQ RIO detachment commander may disapprove any further participation, or subsequent orders may direct them to obtain the vaccine while in status. Historically, the Air Force Reserve Command vice commander has also called for members who fail to receive their vaccination to be placed in a "no-pay, no-points" status until they have received the vaccine.
Members should direct any questions to their servicing MTF or the HQ RIO/IRM office.