Final Northshore Flu Clinics

Written by admin on 20 November 2010

The final pair of Flu Clinics being offered by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit through their 2010 Fall Campaign will be held this week in Red Rock and Nipigon.

Who needs the Influenza Vaccination (flu shot)?

This year, there is only one flu shot for protection against seasonal flu. Just like any other flu season, the vaccine contains the unactivated, or dead, version of three viruses. This year’s vaccine includes protection from the 2009 H1N1 virus because it is still circulating.

The province of Ontario has stocked enough flu vaccine for everyone over 6 months of age and they recommend that everyone get protected with a flu shot.

However, there are groups who are strongly recommended to get a flu shot, these are:

Those who are at a higher risk to get complications:

People, of any age, with a chronic illness
People over the age of 65
People who live in nursing homes or other chronic care homes
Healthy children who are between 6 and 23 months
Healthy pregnant women (risk increases with length of pregnancy; higher risk in third vs second trimester)

Anyone who cares for someone who is at higher risk of complications:

Health care workers in hospitals and other care facilities
People who live with or take care of someone who is at high risk from complications
People who live with or take care of an infant under 6 months; infants can’t get the flu shot
People who live with someone expecting a new born during flu season
People who give care to children under 2 years or 24 months.

Three groups who are given special consideration for 2010-11:

Those who are morbidly obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40
Aboriginal peoples
Healthy children 2 to 4 years of age

These groups have been included because they experienced higher rates of hospitalization and more severe outcomes during 2009’s H1N1 pandemic. The H1N1 virus is still circulating, so it is important that individuals from these groups protect themselves.

Will I need to receive a 2nd shot at a later date?

This year, there is only one flu shot for protection against seasonal flu. Just like any other flu season, the vaccine contains the unactivated, or dead, version of three viruses. This year’s vaccine includes protection from the 2009 H1N1 virus because it is still circulating.

What if I missed the clinic held in my community?

There are other places you can get a flu shot:

Your health care provider; call to find out if they are offering special clinics.
Some walk-in clinics and pharmacies also offer clinics so be on the lookout for that information.
Some employers offer clinics so employees can get their flu shot at work.