Prairie North Health Region is calling on people between 20 to 59 years of age to get immunized against influenza.
PNHR is scheduling more flu clinics throughout the region, targeting the 20-59 age group. Anyone else who has not yet been immunized against influenza is also encouraged to attend and get their flu shot.
Diane Piper, PNHR manager of Public Health Services, says vaccination is particularly important for the 20- to 59-year-old adults as we head toward the February break for students and families. Many people travel or return home to spend time with family and friends.
"If you haven't already received a flu shot, you risk spreading influenza to others or getting the flu yourself, possibly spoiling your holiday break," Piper states.
"The time to be vaccinated is now, as the immunization takes about two weeks to become fully effective," Piper adds.
If you aren't able to attend one of the public drop-in clinics, you can always contact your public health office or public health nurse, your doctor, nurse practitioner or primary care clinic to make arrangements to receive the flu shot.
This winter's flu season is still far from over. The H1N1 flu strain is still circulating and continues to pose a significant risk. The number of deaths and hospitalizations in Saskatchewan due to severe influenza-related illness this season is higher than in the 2009 pandemic year.
Piper explains that Prairie North Health Region has seen a strong uptake of flu vaccine since late December for children age six months to two years, pregnant women and people who are immune compromised.
"It's important that their brothers and sisters, parents, spouses and others with whom they have regular contact be immunized as well," she states.
"We are further strengthening our efforts to get as many residents as possible vaccinated against the flu," adds Piper. The region has added or extended clinics in North Battleford, Meadow Lake, Turtleford, and Lloydminster.
"We'll continue to schedule additional clinics as demand dictates," Piper states. "You can always call your nearest Prairie North public health office, or check our website www.pnrha.ca for the latest clinic information nearest you."
People between two and 59 years of age can be immunized with FluMist, a nasal vaccine that is safe and painless to administer. Injectable vaccine remains available for children six months to two years old, and for persons 60 years of age and older.
Beyond vaccination, people can help protect themselves against influenza through frequent hand washing, coughing and sneezing into their sleeve, cleaning surfaces often and staying at home when sick.
