Last Flu Shot Clinic at Public Health on Sat, Jan 17
Written by admin, January 15, 2015
January 15, 2015 – Residents Strongly Encouraged to Get Flu Shot As Community Influenza Outbreak Continues
The Peterborough Public Health is holding its last flu shot clinic of the season on Saturday, January 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and encourages all residents to get immunized as the community-wide outbreak continues.
“Getting the flu shot is just like wearing your seat belt every time you get in your car. You don’t know exactly when you’re going to need it, but you’ve protected yourself and others by putting it on just in case,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “We know the chances of exposure to the flu are greater than usual now that we’re in a community-wide influenza outbreak, so I strongly recommend that everyone get the flu shot so we can prevent the spread to those who are most vulnerable.”
Dr. Salvaterra declared the community-wide outbreak on December 30, 2014 when the number of lab-confirmed cases and institutional outbreaks reached the outbreak criteria as defined by Public Health Ontario.
The flu shot continues to be widely available at pharmacies and walk-in clinics throughout the city and county of Peterborough, as well as through local physician offices. The flu shot is recommended for everyone over six months of age. It is especially important for people with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, young children, the elderly and anyone who takes care of people in these groups.
To book an appointment at Public Health at 185 King Street for the January 17 clinic, please call 705-743-1000, ext. 349.
In addition to getting the flu shot, residents are advised to take the following precautions to reduce the spread of infection:
- Stay home if feeling unwell
- Wash your hands frequently
- Clean and sanitize commonly-used surfaces frequently
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue and wash hands afterwards
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
705-743-1000, ext. 391