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Flu shot campaign aimed at those most at risk

Oct 18, 2017 | 5:00 PM

To some people the flu can be an inconvenience, but to others, it can cause major health complications or even death. And with that knowledge, the local health authority is encouring everyone, especially those most at risk of complications, to get their flu shot starting next week. 

Prairie North Health Region (PNHR) will begin the annual flu shot campaign next Monday and will set up clinics across the region over the next couple of months. Flu shots are also available at local pharmacies and some doctor’s offices.

Public health nursing clinical supervisor with PNHR, Trina Cappelle, said shots will be available for everyone six months old and up, but added it is particularly important for those most at risk to get vaccinated.

“Individuals over 65 and younger than five-years-old are most at risk,” Cappelle said. “Those with chronic respiratory conditions and pregnant women are also more at risk, but really everyone is susceptible to the flu and should be vaccinated because it is extremely contagious.”

Cappelle said even the healthiest of individuals can easily contract the flu and those individuals who don’t get the shot aren’t just putting themselves at risk, but could pass the virus onto someone who could get seriously ill.

“Those who are most vulnerable can be hospitalized, admitted to ICU and even die,” Capelle said. “It is one of the leading causes of death, especially among seniors, so it isn’t to be taken lightly.”

The flu shot is completely covered for anyone with a Saskatchewan health card. Capelle said home visits can be arranged through the health region for special cases. A full schedule of clinics in North Battleford can be found in the PNHR website.   

 

greg.higgins@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @realgreghiggins