Huron Perth Public Health is encouraging all residents who are six months old or older to get their flu shot this fall. The Ontario Universal Influenza Immunization Program launched November 1st, which means that the vaccine is now available across Huron and Perth.
The flu shot is available in a few different ways; Primary Care Provider’s will be able to give the vaccine to those 6 months and older. Contact your care provider for information on how to get the vaccine. Pharmacies will be able to give vaccines to those aged 2 and older. And Huron Perth Public Health Clinics will be available for families with children between 6 months to 2 years old who do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
The Health Unit is offering two clinics in November:
o Monday, November 15, 2021, 3-6pm | Huron Perth Public Health, 653 West Gore St., Stratford
o Monday, November 22, 2021, 3-6pm | Jacob Memorial Building, 77722D London Rd., Clinton. An appointment is needed. Book your appointment online at www.hpph.ca/flu or by calling the booking line at 1-833-753-2098.
Based on recommendations from the The National Advisory Committee on Immunization, you do not need to worry about when you get your COVID-19 vaccine in relation to the flu shot. You can get it before, during or after, and do not need to worry about the timing.
The flu shot does not protect against other viruses like the stomach flu or coronavirus, but it does protect against severe illness from the flu. HPPH recommend getting the flu shot and still follow all public health guidelines and measures to protect yourself.
To help stop the spread of influenza in the community, HPPH advises all residents to continue to:
· Maintain physical distance
· Wash hands with soap or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, thoroughly and often
· Cough or sneeze into your sleeve
· Keep surfaces and items disinfected
· Stay home if you are sick
· Get the influenza vaccine
