 It's that time of year again. Kids are back in school, fall is here, and many deployments are either wrapping up or about to begin. Unfortunately, this is also the start of flu season. Influenza has the potential to adversely impact Navy Force mission readiness. Navadmin198-15 details the effects of the flu virus, the impacts it may cause, and lists vaccine priorities. Dests attributed to pneumonia and influenza were above the epidemic threshold for seven weeks, accounting for almost 8% of deaths at the peak of the season. Protect yourself, your family, and those around you this flu season by washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. During the 2016-2017 flu season, it's your responsibility to maintain your mission readiness. Check with your chain of command or medical treatment center to find out when your vaccines will be available.