Influenza immunization clinics begin on October 23, 2017. A list of all Sunrise Health Region influenza immunization clinics will be delivered to every home mailbox in the region. A total of 95 clinics in 37 communities are planned in Sunrise Health Region from October, 2017 to January, 2018.
“Getting vaccinated early in the season is important for receiving maximum protection against the influenza virus. The vaccine is especially important for people at high-risk of influenza complications and for their caregivers. This includes young children, pregnant women, those over the age of 65, and persons with underlying health conditions or who are immune-compromised,” says Medical Health Officer, Dr. Ashok Chhetri.
The influenza vaccine is free in Saskatchewan and is recommended for all residents who are six months and older. When attending the clinics, people are encouraged to wear a short sleeved shirt and will need their Saskatchewan Health Card.
The influenza vaccine is a safe, effective way for people to protect themselves and those close to them during the influenza season. A public health nurse at each of the clinics will ask a series of questions to screen for the very few people who cannot be immunized.
“Influenza and pneumonia remain among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada. The influenza virus is very contagious and can spread quickly but the number of cases can be reduced substantially when people get the vaccine,” adds Dr. Chhetri. “Protect yourself and your loved ones by making plans for family members to be immunized as early as possible in the season.”
By immunizing the whole family, the chance of exposure to influenza is reduced for more vulnerable members of the family. Anyone can be infected with the virus without necessarily having signs or symptoms and can pass it on to others.
The clinic listing will be delivered to all mailboxes in the region during the week of October 16th to 20th, 2017. If you refuse the delivery of flyers, you will not receive a copy. You can find the list of public clinics on the region website www.sunrisehealthregion.sk.ca or by calling Healthline at 811. Daily clinic locations will be posted on our Facebook page “Sunrise Health Region”, on Twitter @SunriseRegion and are recorded on the Sunrise Daily Information Update Line, which can be called toll-free at 1-866-800-5510.
