It will soon be flu season in Newfoundland and Labrador and free vaccination clinics will be held province-wide once again this year.
Starting Monday, October 22, the regional health authorities will begin to host public immunization clinics and offer the vaccine through community health offices. To help increase access to the vaccine, the number of public clinics will increase this year.
For more information on scheduled clinic locations, people can visit the website of their regional health authority found below or call 811.
When visiting a clinic, residents are reminded to bring their MCP card and wear a short-sleeved shirt.
People can also get their flu shot from their family doctor or local pharmacy if offered by them.
The vaccine protects against four strains of the influenza virus, including H1N1 and H3N2. Due to a decrease in demand, FluMist will not be offered this year as part of the publicly-funded influenza program.
The department encourages everyone six months of age and older to get the flu shot, especially those at increased risk for complications from the flu. This includes pregnant women, adults and children with chronic health conditions, and seniors. People are encouraged to get the flu shot in the fall or early winter to give their bodies time to build up immunity.
Through the province’s publicly-funded vaccination program, approximately 125,000 people received the flu shot last year.Quotes
“An annual flu shot is the best line of defense to prevent the spread of illness. Protect yourself and your loved ones. Be sure to get your flu shot. I encourage everyone to find a clinic near them and lower the risk of getting sick this year.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
“The best way to prevent influenza is by getting the flu vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective against influenza viruses. Most people do not have reactions to the vaccine. Severe reactions are very rare. Getting a flu vaccine is a simple action that can save lives by protecting you if you are exposed to the virus and by helping to protect other vulnerable people like babies, seniors and those with decreased immunity.”
Dr. Claudia Sarbu
Chief Medical Officer of Health
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Media contact
Tina Newhook
Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 728-2837
tinanewhook@gov.nl.ca