Health and Community Services
October 31, 2014

Strengthening the Health and Well-Being of Residents

Expanded Seasonal Flu Vaccine Program Benefits All Residents

The provincial seasonal influenza vaccine program has expanded and is now available free of charge to all residents age six months and older through physician and public health clinics. In addition, for the first time in this province, authorized pharmacists will also be able to provide the influenza vaccination. Pharmacists will be providing vaccines free of charge to Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program clients and other patients will pay a fee for this service.

“We have expanded the influenza vaccine program in two ways. In previous years, we provided access to specific groups most at risk of complications from influenza. This year, we are making the program available to all residents in Newfoundland and Labrador. In addition, participating pharmacists will now have the ability to provide the vaccine. The most important goal is to make the influenza vaccine available and accessible to the greatest number of people. Combined with regular hand washing, the vaccine is the most effective defense against influenza viruses.”
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services

The provincial influenza program provides vaccine free of charge to residents through the regional health authorities and physician practices. Residents who wish to receive the vaccine are encouraged to contact their public health office, a family physician, or their local health authority for information on ongoing clinic schedules:

• Western Health
• Eastern Health
• Central Health
• Labrador-Grenfell Health

This year, some pharmacists, authorized by the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board, will have the ability to provide influenza vaccinations at their pharmacies. Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program clients will have access to these vaccinations free of charge at pharmacies in addition to physician and public health clinics. Other members of the public will be charged a fee determined by the pharmacy. Further details on the availability of the influenza vaccine can be obtained by contacting a local pharmacy.

“The influenza vaccine is a safe and effective way to help protect people from getting the flu. It can also help reduce complications caused by the influenza virus for those who do become ill. While influenza is common this time of year, there are other viruses that can cause infectious disease that individuals need to protect themselves against. The best way to prevent the spread of infections is to practice the clean, cover and contain rule which includes cleaning your hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when sick.”
- Dr. Faith Stratton, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Newfoundland and Labrador

Influenza is commonly referred to as the flu and is a highly contagious, respiratory infection. Influenza season usually runs from November to April in this province and it can take up to two weeks to get immunity once the flu shot has been given. Individuals are encouraged to get their shot before the season begins. This year’s flu shot protects against three types of influenza, including two types of influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and one type of influenza B.

QUICK FACTS

• The seasonal influenza vaccine is now available free of charge to all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador age six months and older through family physicians and clinics run by the regional health authorities.
• This year, for the first time in Newfoundland and Labrador, participating pharmacists will be providing influenza vaccinations. Vaccines will be available to Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program beneficiaries free of charge. Other members of the public will be charged a fee determined by the pharmacy.
• Influenza is a common, and contagious, respiratory disease. Symptoms of the flu typically include rapid onset of cough, fever, headache, chills and general body aches and pains. Although most people recover fully from influenza, it may lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and has the potential to be life-threatening in individuals most at risk for complications of influenza.
• The best way to prevent the spread of infections is to practice the clean, cover and contain rule which includes cleaning your hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when sick.
• For more information on influenza, the vaccine or flu shot clinics throughout the province, residents may contact their primary health care provider or call the Newfoundland and Labrador HealthLine toll-free 1-888-709-2929.

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Media contact:

Heather MacLean Director of Communications Department of Health and Community Services 709-729-1377, 697-4137 heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2014 10 31                                        10:00 a.m.