The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit won’t be holding any flu shot clinics this year, but there are several options for people to get the shot if they choose.
An annual influenza (flu) shot is the most effective way to protect individuals and their loved ones from the seasonal flu.
The access, availability, and convenience to getting flu shots has never been greater.
Flu shots for the 2015-2016 season will be available throughout the Municipality of Chatham-Kent in late October at the following locations:
– Family doctor and nurse practitioner offices
– Family health teams
– Community health clinics
– Participating pharmacies
– Walk-in clinics
– Various workplace clinics
To find the nearest location to obtain your flu shot:
– Access the Ontario flu shot locator at http://www.ontario.ca/health-and-wellness/get-flu-shot;
– Check out the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit blog at www.ckpublichealth.com;
– Call Clinic Services at 519.355.1071 ext. 5900.
Free seasonal flu shots are available to anyone over the age of six months.
Children under the age of nine may require two shots given 28 days apart, if they have not received a seasonal flu shot in the past.
As a reminder, pharmacists are not able to provide flu shots to those under the age of five.
Each year an estimated 10-25% of Canadians get the seasonal flu.
Illness due to the seasonal flu typically lasts two to seven days.
Although most recover completely, an estimated four to eight thousand Canadians, mostly seniors, die every year from pneumonia related to flu and many others may die from serious complications.
As a result of flu-related illness, younger adults may experience significant time off work, resulting in decreased pay and the inability to meet personal, family or school commitments.
Young children are at increased risk of being hospitalized because of the seasonal flu.
If you or a loved one is hospitalized, please ask your healthcare provider about the seasonal influenza vaccine.
For more information about the seasonal flu shot, visit www.ontario.ca/flu or www.chatham-kent.ca.
