With flu season now in full swing, Northern Health is reminding residents to be up to date in their influenza and COVID-19 immunizations.
This comes as the health authority is expecting a rise in respiratory illness.
The influenza vaccine is free and recommended for anyone six months and up. Shots are available at local pharmacies and primary care providers.
“We encourage everyone to get their influenza and COVID-19 vaccines this fall, especially people at higher risk of harm from influenza and harm from COVID-19. This year’s influenza season is expected to be more severe due to less exposure in the past two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s why it’s especially important to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Jong Kim, Chief Medical Health Officer.
Several communities either have clinics running or will become operational in the next few weeks.
In some cases, residents may be able to get their influenza and COVID-19 vaccine during the same appointment.