Appointments are now open for the free flu and updated COVID-19 immunization clinics, with walk-in locations also being listed.
Everyone six months and older is eligible to get the shots, and people can get both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same appointment.
SHA Medical Health Officer Dr. Tania Diener says the vaccines take about ten days to two weeks in order to take effect, which is why they encourage people to get immunized as soon as possible.
“About 12,000 people end up in hospital every year in Canada because of influenza and about 3,500 people die every year because of influenza disease.”
Diener adds that vaccines protect individuals and communities. She explains that the more people are immunized, the less risk there is for all of us, and that also means fewer physician visits and ICU admissions, which has a positive impact on our healthcare system.
The southeast has the following walk-in clinics available according the the SHA's website:
- ALAMEDA - 204 5th Street - Tuesday, October 15 - 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- CARIEVALE - 128 Broadway Street - Monday, October 21 - 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- CARLYLE - 111 Main Street - Wednesday, October 16 - 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- CARNDUFF - 705 Pacific Avenue - Tuesday, October 22 - 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- FILLMORE - 100 Main Street - Wednesday, October 16 - 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- LAMPMAN - 106 Main Street - Thursday, October 31 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- MILESTONE - Industrial Drive - Wednesday, October 30 - 2:00 p.. - 7:00 p.m.
- OXBOW - 513 Peters Street - Thursday, November 7 - 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- RADVILLE - 840 Conrad Avenue - Tuesday, October 15 - 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- REDVERS - 11 Broadway Street - Thursday, October 17 - 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
For one of the vaccine clinics, book online at www.4flu.ca or call 1-833-727-5829 Monday to Friday.