Flu season has not yet begun in our region, which makes this a good time to get vaccinated against the virus that causes the flu.
Influenza, or the flu, is a common respiratory illness affecting millions of Canadians each year. Although most of these people recover completely, as many as four to five thousand Canadians die of influenza and its complications annually, depending on the severity of the flu season. Seniors and those with chronic diseases are at the greatest risk.
The good news is that you can decrease your chances of getting the flu this winter by getting an influenza vaccination, known as the “flu shot”.
Regular hand washing is another way to help minimize your risk.
The vaccination campaign against the flu is underway. If you are in one of the following “at risk” categories, your flu shot is free:
- Seniors 60 years old and older
- Infants aged 6 to 23 months
- People with certain chronic illnesses
- The caregivers of the people mentioned above
- People who care for children between the ages of 0 and 23 months
- People who work in healthcare services
If you have not yet received your vaccination, it’s not too late. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported no flu activity In the Monteregie region for Nov. 11-17, the most recent week for which we have data. Seasonal influenza usually begins in November and can continue until April.
Even if you are not in one of the above categories, you may still elect to get an influenza vaccination. You should contact your doctor to discuss whether you should get vaccinated or to schedule a vaccination.
There are two more scheduled flu vaccination drop-in clinics in our region, organized by the CLSC. The Île Perrot Community Centre hosts a clinic on December 12 from 1pm until 7pm. In Vaudreuil-Dorion, a flu clinic will be held at the Centre Commercial on Dutrisac December 15 from 9am until 3pm.
For more information, contact a CLSC near you: CLSC Rigaud (450) 451-6609; CLSC St-Polycarpe (450) 265-3771; CLSC La Presqu’ile in Vaudreuil-Dorion (450) 455-6171.
For more information about influenza or the flu shot, contact your doctor, your CLSC, or Santé et services sociaux at 1-800-707-3380.
Équipe d’intervention médicale provides this information as a public service. To learn more about Équipe d’intervention médicale visit us online at saintlazare911.com or call 450 455 5824.
In case of emergency, call 911.
