As flu activity increases in Ontario, people are asking their healthcare providers if the flu vaccine they received this season is going to protect them against the H1N1 virus, the predominant flu bug in our area.
Public Health distributes flu vaccine to healthcare providers and pharmacies, and is reassuring anyone who received the flu shot that it’s a good match for the circulating H1N1 virus.
There has been a recent spike in cases of the flu in western Canada. Even though it’s too early to predict how significantly the flu will impact Wellington, Dufferin and Guelph, the flu is definitely here and the number of cases is increasing.
For some people the flu can be very serious. The most vulnerable are the elderly, children under 6 months of age who cannot get the flu shot, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
“It takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to protect someone from the flu. Don’t wait until it is here to get the flu shot. Protect yourself and those you care for. Get your shot and get it early,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
“The vaccine is your best protection against the H1N1 virus that is spreading in the community.”
The flu virus causes a respiratory infection with unpleasant symptoms that include headache, chills, fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children.
The flu spreads rapidly from person to person with complications that are potentially serious and even fatal. The public can get the free flu shot from their doctor, pharmacy, or by booking an appointment at a Public Health clinic.
For those who don’t like needles there is an alternative nasal spray called FluMist available for individuals between the ages of two and 59 at a cost of $20.
To book and appointment, or for more information call 1-800-265-7293 or visit www.wdgpublichealth.ca.
