Kelsey Trail Health Region News Release – October 16th, 2017
As part of the provincial seasonal influenza immunization campaign, Kelsey Trail Health Region’s annual public health influenza immunization clinics are scheduled to begin on Monday, October 23rd.
Immunization is considered the most effective measure in preventing influenza. All individuals six months of age and older are eligible to receive the vaccine free-of-charge and are encouraged to get vaccinated early in the season.
“The flu vaccine is a safe, effective way for people to protect themselves and those close to them from the flu,” stated KTHR Medical Health Officer Dr. Mohammad Khan. “Flu clinics are scheduled to begin before influenza starts circulating among the population as a preventative measure to get ahead of the virus. Immunization is the most effective means of preventing influenza.”
“Flu vaccination is especially important for people at high-risk of influenza complications which includes pregnant women, young children, the elderly, individuals with underlying health conditions, and the immune-compromised as well as their caregivers. Influenza is a serious, contagious and potentially deadly disease for those considered high risk.”
Residents of all ages can get the injectable vaccine when the flu clinics start on October 23rd. Some local pharmacists in KTHR are also providing the injectable vaccine to those nine years and older.
Everyone 18 years and older planning to get a flu shot must complete a Flu/Pneumo Immunization Registration and Consent Form. Parents or guardians of children under 18 years old will also be required to complete a registration form and provide consent for each child receiving the flu shot. Forms can be downloaded and printed from the KTHR website at www.kelseytrailhealth.ca. Completed forms should be presented to Public Health Nurses at the time individuals are receiving their flu shot at a public clinic. Those that do not complete the form in advance will be required to present their Saskatchewan Health card at the time of their immunization.
A complete schedule of Kelsey Trail Health Region influenza immunization clinics is available online on the KTHR website at www.kelseytrailhealth.ca or by calling HealthLine 811. Vaccine will also be available to any individual who wants to receive it through public health offices and physician offices in KTHR.
