Submitted
Prairie North Health Region’s seasonal influenza immunization campaign begins Monday, October 23. Flu shot clinics are scheduled for the next several weeks at locations across the Region. You are encouraged to get your flu shot as soon as possible to provide the best protection throughout the flu season which typically begins in North America in early November and continues to around the end of March.
Everyone age six months and over is encouraged to get the flu shot. “Anyone can get the flu, even if you are perfectly healthy and ‘never get sick’,” said Trina Cappelle, Public Health Nursing Clinical Supervisor for Prairie North.
“Certain people are at greater risk of complications from the flu, such as children younger than five years of age, seniors over the age of 65, women who are pregnant, and individuals with chronic health conditions. By getting the flu shot, you are also protecting newborn babies and others who are unable to receive the vaccine,” Cappelle stated.
Influenza immunization is free of charge. You can get your flu shot at the public clinics and at public health offices across Prairie North until the end of March. Most pharmacies and some physician/nurse practitioner offices also offer the flu vaccine.
This year’s vaccine provides protection against the four strains of influenza expected to circulate this flu season. Only injectable vaccine is being offered through Saskatchewan’s free public influenza immunization program.
Cappelle explained that flu vaccine is very safe. “The most common side effect is tenderness at the injection site. That tenderness – if any – typically lasts one to two days,” she said.
“Influenza (the flu) is a serious viral disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. It should not be confused with the ‘stomach flu’ or common cold. Influenza is highly contagious and the best way to prevent it is by receiving flu vaccine annually and as early in the season as possible,” stated Cappelle.
Cappelle encourages you to speak with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist or public health official if you have questions or concerns about getting the flu shot.
A complete listing of all influenza immunization clinics in Prairie North is available at www.pnrha.ca/flu .
Flu clinic schedules are available at most physician clinics in the Health Region and on posters in many community locations. Schedules are also advertised in local newspapers.
You may also contact your nearest Population/Public Health Office at: North Battleford 306-446-6400; Lloydminster 306-820-6225; Meadow Lake 306-236-1570; Maidstone 306-893-2622; Turtleford 306-845-3768’ Neilburg 306-823-3450.
