Why Do We Need A New Flu Shot Every Year?
Did you know?????
Every year millions of Canadians become infected with the flu, usually in late fall to early spring. Some people are only mildly affected, while others get very sick. Some may develop serious complications, such as pneumonia. Some will need to be hospitalized.
Each year:
- Up to 7 Million Canadians get the flu.
- An average of 12,200 Canadians are admitted to hospital due to the flu.
- Approximately 3,500 Canadians die yearly from the flu.
Who is most at risk?
- People with health conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, obesity.
- People 65 and older.
- People who live in retirement/long term care homes.
- Children between 6 months old and 5 years of age.
- Pregnant women.
Protect yourself
The best way to protect yourself and those around you is by getting the flu vaccine.
- It protects you if exposed.
- It may stop you from getting very sick.
- It prevents you from passing on the virus to others.
It is important to get immunized every year.
- The effects can wear off so you need a booster.
- The virus changes from year to year.
You play an important role in preventing the spread of influenza. You have an opportunity to teach clients about prevention practices, such as hand washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, and what to do if they become ill with influenza.
Get your flu shot late fall (October to December) to ensure the vaccine lasts for the entire season.)
- It takes 1-4 days for flu symptoms to appear.
- It takes up to 14 days for the flu vaccine to offer full protection
- You can spread the flu 24 hours before symptoms appear.
Where to Get the Flu Vaccine?
- At a local public health clinic
- At a pharmacy
- At your health care practitioner’s office