Kelowna

This year’s flu clinics will roll out in three stages in order to provide the best protection for all age and risk groups.

Beginning the week of October 13, seasonal flu shots will be available for those 65 and older and those living in long-term care facilities.

Later this year, H1N1 vaccine will be available free to everyone who needs and wants to be vaccinated. Early in the New Year, after the H1N1 campaign is finished, seasonal flu vaccines will be available for all risk groups.

“The elderly are most at risk for serious complications from seasonal flu, so we will continue to provide the seasonal flu vaccine to those 65 years and older at clinics starting the week of October 13,” says Dr. Paul Hasselback, Medical Health Officer for Interior Health.

“Since the evidence, so far, shows that those under 65 are more susceptible to the H1N1 flu virus, we are making the H1N1 vaccine available free to those who need and want one at clinics that will start later this year. Other people eligible for the seasonal flu vaccine can be immunized early in 2010 after the H1N1 vaccination program is complete.”

Getting your seasonal flu shot and your H1N1 flu shot will help protect you and those around you from getting sick this year.

All forms of influenza are highly contagious and the leading cause of preventable death due to infectious disease in Canada. The flu spreads when a person comes into contact with droplets that escape when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Hand washing, proper coughing and sneezing etiquette and staying home when you are sick will help stop the spread of the flu.

“Hand washing is particularly important, since you can spread the flu even before you have symptoms,” adds Dr. Hasselback.

“That’s why it’s important to wash your hands throughout the day. Getting a flu shot will also help protect you and those around you – at home, school, work and in the community. And remember, if you or members of your family are sick, stay home and please do not send ill children to day cares or schools.”

Information on all flu clinics and at-risk groups eligible for free seasonal flu vaccine, will be posted on Interior Health’s website.

To find the clinic nearest you, simply visit the Flu Locator at www.immunizebc.ca, contact your local Public Health Centre or watch for advertising in your local media.