5th Medical Group
As winter approaches Minot Air Force Base, preparation means more than snow tires and layered uniforms. It also requires a commitment to maintaining medical readiness. The 5th Medical Group Immunization Clinic leads the effort to protect the installation from influenza and ensure Minot’s Airmen remain ready to execute the nation’s highest stakes missions.
This year’s flu campaign began early with the arrival of boxes filled with prefilled flu vaccine syringes, all safeguarded through strict cold chain management. With 5,500 active- duty members, Minot AFB holds the largest active-duty population in Air Force Global Strike Command, meaning a seasonal flu outbreak has the potential to significantly affect operational capability.
“Our primary goal is simple. Protect the force,” said Technical Sergeant Michael Elbo, Immunization Clinic Noncommissioned Officer in Charge. “Every Airman vaccinated ensures one more person remains medically ready for the mission.”
To maximize access and reduce impacts to workplace operations, the Immunization Clinic executed a high-capacity flu line at The Turf over two full days with the support of medics, administrative technicians, and nurses from across the MDG. More than 3,600 active-duty personnel received their vaccines during this event, demonstrating strong participation across the installation. Targeted flu lines were also conducted at fire department stations, security forces units, and at Missile Wing Headquarters. These efforts ensured first responders and nuclear enterprise personnel were vaccinated directly at their duty locations.
In addition to mobile vaccination support, daily walk-in services at the clinic continue to boost coverage. Active-duty vaccinations have now exceeded 4,300 personnel as the campaign progresses.
The 2025-2026 Flu Campaign remains a vital component of force health protection, ensuring Team Minot’s warfighters stay healthy and mission capable throughout the challenging North Dakota winter.
