Public health officials say that getting the flu vaccine is especially important for children this year, to reduce their risk of illness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health points out that flu vaccines are approved, available, and free for everyone over six months of age and indicates that vaccination is a proven, effective way to reduce infectious illness.
Officials say that ensuring a child gets the flu vaccination as soon as possible will provide them the best possible protection against the flu this year, as it can take up to two weeks to build immunity.
Children over six months of age can receive the flu vaccination from their health care provider, and everyone over two years of age can receive the flu vaccination at a local pharmacy.
Individuals who are able to get the vaccination through their health care provider or the pharmacy are encouraged to do so.
The heath unit is offering flu vaccination clinics this year to children six months to five years of age, at the health unit office November 8 and 9.
From the Hasting Prince Edward Heath Unit release:
179 North Park Street, Belleville,
9:30 to 11:45 and 1:15 to 3:30
Appointments are required.
Individuals with children between two and five years of age are encouraged to seek vaccination at a local pharmacy if possible, to ensure spaces remain available for children who are not eligible at local pharmacies.
- Stay home when you are sick
- Get tested for COVID-19 (if advised by screening)
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your cough and sneeze
- Clean frequently touched surfaces often
- Get vaccinated.
