Thursday, September 24, 2009
EOHU Announces Flu Shot Rollout For Seasonal and H1N1 Vaccines
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit will provide seasonal flu shots to people aged 65 and over and to residents of long-term care homes in October.
“Seniors have a higher risk of complications due to the seasonal flu. For this reason, we want to ensure that the flu shot is offered to those who need it most”, explains Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health.
Some studies in Canada show a potential association between prior seasonal flu vaccination and the risk of getting an infection with the H1N1 virus. Ontario is taking a cautious approach and is phasing in two flu vaccine programs:
- In October, the seasonal flu vaccine will be offered to Ontarians 65 years and over and to residents of long-term care homes.
- H1N1 vaccine will be offered to the general population in November.
- The universal seasonal influenza immunization program will be offered in December and January to all other residents six months of age and older.
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit also recommends that you follow these routine precautions in order to protect yourself and your family:
- Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve rather than your hands.
- Stay home when you’re sick, and keep your children home when they’re sick.
- Keep commonly touched surfaces clean and disinfected.
- When possible, keep a distance of at least 6 feet from people who are sick.
- Avoid visiting hospitals or long-term care facilities if you’re unwell.
- Contact your healthcare provider if you’ve been experiencing flu-like symptoms and your condition worsens.
For more information, please call the Eastern Ontario Health Unit at 613-933-1375 or at 1 800 267-7120 and ask for the Health Line.
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