Despite substantial increases in vaccinations at the start of the flu clinic season, the Health Unit reports flu shot numbers to the end of November are down from last year. Approximately 12,500 flu shots were given out from the start of the clinics to November 30, compared to 18,500 in 2005.

Health Units across the province expected that the delay in receiving the vaccine and the subsequent delay in starting flu clinics would result in lower vaccination rates. However, warm weather, no reported flu activity across the country, fewer clinics and not having the vaccine in time for those seniors who head south for the winter also contributed to the decrease.

“With fewer people vaccinated there is a greater risk of the illness spreading in our community.  This is a special concern during the holiday season where social gatherings provide optimal opportunity for viruses to easily spread from person to person,” said Darlene Binette, Manager, Infectious Disease Program.

The Health Unit reminds the public that the flu typically occurs from late fall to late spring. There is still opportunity to get a flu shot from any of the remaining three community flu clinics being held this year or from a physician. Flu clinics are scheduled as follows:

·         Monday, December 18, Castlegreen Community Centre, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

·         Tuesday, December 19, Slovak Legion, 2:00-7:00 p.m.

·         Wednesday, December 20, Evangel Church, 1:30-5:30 p.m.

The flu vaccine is available for adults and children over one year of age. No health card is required. For more details on the clinic locations, call the Health Unit’s Flu Line at 624-9082 or toll free at 1-866-607-3337.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, there are other steps you can take to avoid the flu, colds and other illnesses.

“To prevent infections at any time of the year, we recommend you wash your hands often and if you’re sick stay home from work or school and avoid visiting people,” Binette added.

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