November 2, 2021 - The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) is recommending that everyone get their flu (influenza) vaccine this year. Anyone 6-months of age and older is now eligible.
The flu vaccine is available through health care providers and pharmacies in Thunder Bay and the District. Health care providers are able to immunize all eligible ages, and pharmacies are able to immunize anyone two years of age and older.
To support families with children under the age of two, from November 1 to 12, TBDHU will be offering the influenza vaccine to children aged 6-23 months and their family members at the Coliseum Building on the CLE Grounds in Thunder Bay. This is on a walk-in basis; no appointments are necessary. The Coliseum clinic is open Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday from 11:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Note that COVID-19 vaccine will continue to be provided as usual.
In addition, throughout November and December, TBDHU will be offering the influenza vaccine to those getting COVID-19 vaccine at the CLE Coliseum. Anyone getting a first, second or third dose of COVID-19 vaccine will also be able to receive their influenza vaccine at the same time.
“Flu can be a serious disease, resulting in hospitalizations and deaths every year in Ontario,” said Dr. Janet DeMille, Medical Officer of Health. “It is more complicated this year with COVID- 19, as both are significant illnesses. The combined impact could also put considerable strain on the health care system. For both illnesses, vaccines have been proven to reduce infections and serious outcomes."
Individuals who are at higher risk of complications from the flu and those who live with them or care for them, as well as health care workers are encouraged to be immunized as soon as possible. Please visit www.thunderbayflu.ca for further information.
TBDHU will hold other community flu clinics for children 6 to 23 months and their families. Clinic dates and locations will be updated and available on the dedicated flu website at www.thunderbayflu.ca. For more information on influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations, please visit the TBDHU website or contact TBDHU at (807) 625-5900 or toll-free at 1-888-294-6630.
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For more information - Health Unit Media: news@tbdhu.com.