Western Health will distribute 23,000 doses of the Influenza (flu) vaccine throughout the Western Region to Public Health Clinics, Doctors Offices, Hospitals and Long Term Care Sites over the next few weeks.
The Influenza Season runs from late November to late March. This year, Health Canada reports that 1 in 6 people may get the flu. The goal of the influenza immunization program is to prevent serious illness and complications caused by influenza.
The influenza virus is easily spread when we cough or sneeze and can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces such as a telephone or doorknob. We all need to practice good hygiene to help prevent the spread of the flu.
The flu virus itself changes slightly from year to year and the vaccine used last year will not necessarily provide protection against the virus that is common for this upcoming season. Therefore you need to have a new flu vaccine yearly.
The influenza virus affects the nose, throat and lungs. It causes tiredness, headaches, high fevers, and aching muscles. It also reduces the body’s ability to fight off other infections. This virus can cause serious health related illness for very young children, people over 65, and others with a medical condition. For the general population it can impact our family life and our work.
For the 2007-2008 Flu Season, Western Health, guided by the province, will offer free vaccines to these target groups: Adults and children with chronic illness; Residents of nursing homes and community care facilities; All persons over 65; All children between the ages of 6 to 23 months; Health care workers; Essential services workers; and Individuals who work with poultry.
If you fit into any of these groups please call your Public Health Nurse or your doctor’s office to set up an appointment to receive the Flu Vaccine.
Last year the Flu vaccine was given to 52% of people over 65 years of age in Western Region. This year we hope to reach more people in all of the recommended target groups.
Stay healthy this winter. Wash your hands often, especially before eating or after being out in public places. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze. Get the flu shot if you fit into one of the groups identified!
If you do get the flu stay at home and avoid school or work until you feel better.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Heidi Staeben-Simmons
Director of Communications, Western Health
709-637-5252