Flu season is about to start and Porcupine Health Unit will be offering online appointment system beginning Thursday October 27 for their flu shot clinic and walk in clients are also welcome.
Information posted on Porcupine Health Unit (PHU)’s website says that, “this November it will be easier to get your flu shot. Our new appointment booking system will be on line Thursday, October 27, for all public flu clinics across the region.”
The new online flu vaccine booking system will make it more convenient to pick the time that works best for the individual without having to waiting in line.
Lynn Leggett, Manager of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Services, said the online appointment booking will make it more convenient for people living in the Porcupine Health district to get their flu shot.
“Everyone should get a flu shot,” she said.
Leggett said she will set the example for others to get their flu vaccine and will be among the first to get the shot.
Leggett also hopes other community leaders show up for the flu shot to encourage residents to be immunized against this years strain of flu.
“During the month of November PHU will have flu clinics every day at our Timmins office and other regional PHU offices,” Leggett said, “Including some hours on Saturday.”
But the PHU clinics are not the only place to receive the flu vaccine. People who find more convenient can also get the flue vaccine at their doctor’s office by appointment and also local pharmacy will announce days that they will host flu vaccine clinics.
Unlike some diseases where a person can get immunized and be protected for several years at a time, the flu vaccine has to be received annually because of the rapidly changing nature of the flu virus and the emergence of new strains annually.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, Influenza or the flu is a respiratory infection caused primarily by influenza A and B viruses.
In Canada, influenza generally occurs each year in the late fall and winter months. Symptoms typically include the sudden onset of high fever, chills, sore throat, cough and myalgia. Other common symptoms include headache, loss of appetite and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also occur, especially in children.
Most people will recover within a week or ten days, but some are at greater risk of more severe complications, such as pneumonia.
Vaccination is recommended for all individuals aged 6 months and older with particular focus on people at high risk of influenza-related complications or hospitalization, including all the elderly.
For more information on influenza or the flu, please click here
For information about PHU’s flu clinics, please click here
Or call Porcupine Health Unit at 705-267-1181
