The traditional influenza (flu) season is upon us and Interior Health is calling on everyone to protect themselves and increase immunity within the community by getting their annual vaccine. This year the flu shot is available free of charge to everyone six months of age and older.
“Everyone is at risk of influenza and spreading it to others, and as we continue to face the challenges of COVID-19, we encourage all British Columbians to get immunized,” says Dr. Sue Pollock, Interior Health interim chief medical health officer.
With the health system under stress from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, health authorities are urging people to get the influenza vaccination to help protect themselves, their loved ones and the community from illness this winter. Health authorities also highlight there is no conflict between COVID-19 vaccines and influenza vaccines.
While influenza can make anyone sick, some people are at increased risk of severe disease and complications, including children under five years of age, people who are pregnant, Indigenous people, those over the age of 65 years, and those with underlying chronic health conditions.
The influenza vaccine is available through pharmacists, community healthcare providers like family physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, First Nations community health nurses, or local health units.
In Osoyoos and Oliver, flu shots are also available at Pharmasave and Shoppers Drug Mart.
