The WDG Public Health unit will continue to provide H1N1 and seasonal flu shots at community clinics until Dec. 11.
With the exception of a clinic scheduled in Drayton on Dec. 16, the community clinics will close at that time.
Starting Dec. 14, residents can get flu shots at public health offices. Many physicians are also offering H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccine for their patients.
The dominant strain of flu in the community currently is H1N1. However, flu is unpredictable and other strains of the seasonal flu could arrive during winter and early spring months.
“The message hasn’t changed,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health. “After getting your flu shots, it takes about 10 to 14 days to develop immunity. As we head into a season of social gatherings and holiday travel, ensure the fullest protection for yourself and your family – get both H1N1 and seasonal flu shots.”
For flu clinic schedules and other flu information, go to www.wdghu.org or call the Flu Hotline at 1-800-265-7293 extension 4161 weekdays from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Follow the Twitter feed on the website to find out approximate waiting times at the clinics.
With the H1N1 vaccine available to all who want it, public health now has had an increase in the number of attendees at the community flu clinics.
Healthy children aged 3 to 9 only need one shot of the H1N1 vaccine.
Children three to nine years of age with chronic disease will need to get a second shot. The high school clinics are now well underway.
The regular community clinic schedule started again on Nov. 30.
