The leaves are falling and it’s starting to get cold out, sure signs flu season is not far away.
The time has come for people to protect themselves with their annual seasonal flu immunization. Prairie North Health Region is launching its yearly campaign to protect people from influenza by providing the flu shot.
Prairie North has issued a news release announcing flu clinics begin Monday, Oct. 19 across the health region. The flu shot is available at clinics and public health offices, and will also be available through some physician or nurse practitioner clinics.
The vaccination is available free of charge to people age six months and older. Like last year, flu immunization will be available needle-free for children as of mid-November with FluMist nasal spray used. The hope is that by having the nasal spray option available for children more people will be reached.
Last year Prairie North had a flu immunization campaign that went to trade shows, hockey games and to area schools, according to Karrie Hammond-Collins, manager of public health for PNHR, in a statement.
“We know from research that getting immunized against influenza is the best way to prevent getting and spreading the seasonal flu. Like last year, we will be offering flu clinics in a variety of settings and extending hours into evenings and weekends to make it easy for people to get immunized,” said Hammond-Collins.
“Because of last year’s success we will be running a similar flu campaign this year and look forward to seeing even more community members at our clinics.”
According to the news release from Prairie North, influenza is caused by a virus and spreads very easily between people when someone with the flu sneezes, coughs or talks. Millions of Canadians catch the flu each year, and while most recover within 10 days, others may develop serious complications that can send them to hospital.
The health region is urging vaccinations to prevent the spread of influenza and of unnecessary complications. Also, annual immunization is urged as the flu virus changes slightly from year to year.
“Influenza can be much more serious for some people, than just a runny nose,” Hammond-Collins said.
“It’s important to remember that young children, pregnant women, older adults and individuals with medical conditions are more likely to get complications from the flu. That’s why after you get vaccinated, you should still take care to stay home when you are sick, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and clean your hands often.” Hammond-Collins said.
People are urged to talk to their doctor, nurse, pharmacist or public health official if there are questions or concerns about getting the flu shot or flu nasal spray. The list of all influenza immunization clinics in Prairie North is available at www.pnrha.ca/flu.
Also, flu clinic schedules can be found at most physician clinics in the Health Region and on posters in many community locations. Schedules are being advertised as well 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 and Neilburg 306-823-3450.
