ELIGIBLE B.C. residents who want to protect themselves and their families from getting the flu are now able to get vaccinated at flu clinics throughout the province, announced Minister of Health Michael de Jong Oct. 17.
According to a written statement, flu vaccinations are available from a variety of health care providers, including family physicians, walk-in clinics, pharmacies and dedicated flu clinics. The vaccine is provided free of charge to high-risk groups and their regular contacts. All other British Columbians are able to purchase the vaccine. Those eligible for the free vaccine include:
- People 65 and older and their caregivers.
- Children and adults with chronic health conditions and their household contacts.
- Health care workers and emergency responders.
- Healthy children between six months and 23 months of age.
- Household contacts and caregivers of children under two years old.
- Pregnant women who will be in their third trimester during influenza season.
- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities.
- Aboriginal peoples. - People with a body mass index of 40 or greater.
Public facilities offering flu clinics include John Braithwaite Community Centre, North Shore Neighbourhood House, Parkgate Community Centre, Silver Harbour Centre, St. Stephen's Catholic Church, West Vancouver Community Centre and West Vancouver Seniors' Activity Centre. A number of local pharmacies are also offering flu shots as more than 1,300 pharmacists across the province are authorized to administer injections.
For dates and more information, or to find your nearest flu shot clinic, call HealthLink BC at 811 or visit the B.C. Flu Clinic Locator at: www.health.gov. bc.ca/flu.
