Influenza immunization clinics begin on October 31, and over the coming week, a listing of all Sunrise Health Region influenza immunization clinics will be delivered to every home mailbox in the region.
A total of 98 clinics in 36 communities are planned in Sunrise Health Region from October to December, said a release from the Health Region.
“Getting vaccinated early in the season is important in terms of receiving maximum protection against the influenza virus,” the release said.
“It is especially important for people at high-risk of influenza complications and for their caregivers; this includes young children, those over the age of 65, pregnant women, persons with underlying health conditions, and persons who are immune-compromised,” said Dr. Ashok Chhetri, medical health officer.
The influenza vaccine is recommended for residents of all ages, including children over the age of six months, all of whom can get the injectable vaccine as soon as the influenza clinics start on October 31. This year, the nasal spray vaccine (FluMist) will not be available through the Public Health clinics.
The influenza vaccine is a safe, effective way for people to protect themselves and those close to them during the influenza season, it said. A public health nurse at each of the clinics will ask a series of questions to screen for the very few people who cannot be immunized.
When attending the clinics, people are encouraged to wear a short sleeved shirt and will need their Saskatchewan Health Card.
“Influenza and pneumonia remain among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada,” it said.
“The influenza virus is very contagious and can spread quickly but the number of cases can be reduced substantially when people get the vaccine,” adds Dr. Chhetri. “We are asking everyone to watch his or her mail for the clinic listings brochure. Protect yourself and your loved ones by making plans for family members to be immunized as early as possible in the season.”
By immunizing the whole family, the chance of exposure to influenza is reduced for more vulnerable members of the family, it said. Anyone can be infected with the virus without necessarily having signs or symptoms and are capable of passing this virus on to others.
The clinic listing is distributed to every home mailbox in the region, with the exception of addresses that refuse delivery of flyers. The clinic list can also be found on the region website www.sunrisehealthregion.sk.caand by dialing Healthline at 811. Daily clinic locations will be posted on the Facebook page “Sunrise Health Region”, on Twitter @SunriseRegion and are recorded on the Sunrise Daily Information Update Line, which can be called toll-free.
