Saskatchewan's publicly-funded seasonal influenza immunizations will once again be available across the province beginning October 12, 2010.
This year's influenza season is expected to be a much more typical influenza year, says the province's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Moira McKinnon.
However, as this is a post pandemic year, the publicly-funded seasonal influenza vaccine will be available, free of charge, through public health clinics and physicians to any individual who wants to receive it. Vaccination is particularly being recommended for persons at higher risk of becoming seriously ill with influenza such as adults 65 and over, persons with a chronic health condition or severe obesity, pregnant women and children from six months to four years of age (under five). Vaccination is also recommended for individuals in close contact with high risk groups. List of high risk groups attached.
"We strongly encourage people in risk groups to get their flu shot," says McKinnon. "One of the biggest lessons learned through the H1N1 pandemic was the safety and effectiveness of vaccination, along with the adoption of infection prevention methods such as frequent handwashing and cough and sneeze etiquette.
We are also encouraging employees to take advantage of immunizations offered through the workplace."
Vaccines will also be available for sale through third parties and private companies, such as pharmacies and non-government nursing services. People who purchase their vaccine will not be reimbursed. The seasonal influenza vaccine for 2010-2011 includes three components, one of which is for protection against H1N1.
"Vaccination is still recommended to people who received the H1N1 vaccine last year to ensure full protection for this flu season, but it is most important for people with underlying health conditions," Dr. McKinnon adds.
For information on flu clinics, residents can contact their local public health office, physician or regional health authority or call HealthLine at 1-877-800-0002. Updated information on clinics and influenza will also be available through the Ministry of Health website www.health.gov.sk.ca and the websites of regional health authorities.
