Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/October 15, 2019 – Flu season is just around the corner, and residents are encouraged to protect themselves from the flu by getting the flu shot. Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) encourages everyone over the age of 6 months to get their annual influenza immunization and lower their risk of getting the flu this year.
“The flu can cause serious illness and getting the flu shot is the best way to protect both yourself, and those around you” says Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO for HPEPH. “The flu vaccine can take up to two weeks to build immunity in your body, therefore it is highly recommended to get the vaccine by November or early December”.
The vaccine is available at various locations throughout Hastings and Prince Edward Counties including your healthcare provider’s office, participating pharmacies and at HPEPH offices and clinics. Certain groups of people are at higher risk of complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get immunized. These groups include children 6 months to less than 5 years of age, people aged 65 and older, and people with chronic medical conditions. Health Care Providers are also strongly advised to get immunized.
HPEPH will once again be providing dedicated drop-in community clinics to help improve local access to this important vaccine. For a list of locations, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. Please note that some locations have changed for 2019.
There are special considerations for children receiving the flu shot for the first time, or for seniors over age 65. “Children who are receiving the vaccine for the first time require 2 doses”, says Bill Sherlock, Clinical Services Manager at HPEPH. “Since this takes longer to provide full protection for the child, we encourage parents to have their children vaccinated as early as possible”. In addition, there are two vaccines available for seniors – a regular vaccination, and a high dose. While the regular vaccination is available at all participating locations, the high dose vaccination is only available through Public Health or your primary care provider.
While the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family, other ways to stay healthy this flu season include regular handwashing, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, keeping active and getting plenty of rest.
In addition, please note the following correction: In the October 2 Board of Health Update, a link to HPEPH flu immunization clinic dates was included which incorrectly indicated a public clinic would be taking place in Belleville on November 27th. Please note that there is no public flu immunization clinic taking place on this date. The HPEPH website has been updated and all dates posted are now correct. Apologies for any inconvenience.
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Media Contact:
Emily Tubbs, Communications Specialist
613-966-5500 x 464 or 613-848-2398
etubbs@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
