Thursday, March 28, 2024

Everything you need to know about avoiding the flu this year

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Have you gotten your flu shot yet? It’s not too late.

Island Health is encouraging people to get their flu shots and follow preventive steps (below) to protect themselves and their loved ones this flu season.

· Clean your hands regularly (with soap and water or alcohol based hand rubs)
· Cover your mouth when you cough or cough into your sleeve
· Stay home when you are sick
· Reschedule visits to loved ones at Island Health facilities when you are sick

Finding a vaccine provider in your community

Vaccines are available from a pharmacist or physician at many convenient locations. Visit Immunize BC’s Influenza Clinic Locator, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, or contact your family doctor for more information.

To find out if you are eligible for the free flu vaccine, visit viha.ca/flu.

Families with children can also get their flu shot at a public health clinic. Visit islandfluclinics.ca to find a public health flu clinic near you.

For more information about the influenza vaccine, visit immunizebc.ca or call 8-1-1 to speak to a health professional at HealthLinkBC.

Influenza (the flu) is among the top ten leading causes of death in Canada, causing over 12,000 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths annually.

About the flu

The flu is an infection of the nose and throat and lungs caused by the influenza virus, which spreads through breathing, coughing and sneezing.

Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and cough. The term “flu” is often used to describe other illnesses, such as a cold or stomach virus. However, flu symptoms are usually prolonged and more severe than a cold and do not include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

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Alistair Ogden
Former staff writer at Victoria Buzz.

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