Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacists encourage flu vaccination

Pharmacists are encouraging people to take extra care of themselves in anticipation of a tougher flu season than previous years, following an intense flu season in Australia. 

Glenmore Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacist owner Nathan Klaassen says the three most important actions for keeping away from this year's flu strain are practising healthy habits, stopping the spread of germs and getting the flu shot. 

Hand washing for 30 seconds is one of the easiest ways to help prevent the flu, says Klaassen, as well as cleaning surfaces such as plastic or wooden surfaces, which the flu can live on for up to 24 hours.

Klaassen remains confident the availability of the flu shot won't be affected by recent shortages in supply. 

"Some manufacturers supplying Canada with the influenza vaccine are experiencing shortages or delays in the delivery of the vaccine for various reasons, and this could affect the delivery timing of the vaccine to some stores in British Columbia. Feel free to give us a call at your local pharmacy, and we'll let you know if we have them in stock, and we also update our website regularly. 

"By my understanding, there's nothing to worry about this year, even though there is some delay at the moment. We have been told that in B.C. we should receive the appropriate allotments over the course of time and anyone who does need to get vaccinated should be given the chance to get vaccinated, so just be a little bit patient with it."