The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is encouraging the public to get the flu vaccine.
The flu can make a healthy adult sick for weeks, but in vulnerable populations like older adults and children, it can lead to more serious complications. Getting your flu shot is your best defense against the flu and protects your loved ones too.
Babies, children under five years of age, people over 65 years of age, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable to complications from the flu. It is contagious, and you can catch it from someone who hasn’t yet shown symptoms.
Andrea McLellan, manager of the Vaccine Preventable Diseases program says, “In addition to receiving the flu shot, you can lessen your chances of getting the flu by washing your hands often, coughing and sneezing into your sleeve, staying home when sick, and avoid touching your face.”
The virus that causes the flu changes frequently, therefore the vaccine is different each year. As a result, it is important to get your flu shot every fall. The flu shot is free and is available at the Health Unit, at clinics held throughout the district, from participating health care providers and pharmacies.
Side effects from the flu shot are common and should subside after a few days.
“Normal side effects that can occur will happen within six to 12 hours after the flu shot is taken and can last from one to two days,” says Public Health nurse, Jessica Taus. “Side effects include mild headaches, fever, aching muscles or sore joints. Most people don’t experience all of those symptoms but they shouldn’t last more than two days.”
For more information about the flu shot clinics in our district, or to book your flu shot appointment, contact the Health Unit in Parry Sound at 705-746-5801ext. 3215 or click here.