Released on October 20, 2017
The publicly-funded influenza (flu) vaccine will be offered in Saskatchewan beginning October 23 through public health clinics, some physician and Nurse Practitioner offices, and participating pharmacies.The free flu shot is offered to residents six months and older, and is highly recommended for people at high risk of complications from influenza.
“Influenza can cause serious illness in seniors, people with chronic health conditions, young children and pregnant women,” Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. “Seniors have the highest risk of complications, hospitalization or death from influenza. I strongly encourage everyone at high risk to get a flu shot early in the season and be protected before the virus begins to circulate widely.”
Caregivers of people at high risk are also encouraged to get a flu shot to protect themselves and those around them. Only injectable vaccine will be offered in Saskatchewan through the publicly-funded influenza immunization program for 2017-18.
The injectable vaccine provides protection against four different flu virus strains that are most likely to circulate this season, including H3N2 which tends to be severe.
For flu clinic locations and schedules:
- Check your health region website;
- Call your local public health office; or
- Call HealthLine 811.
Pharmacists can only immunize adults and children nine years of age and older who have a valid Saskatchewan health card. Children under nine will need to be vaccinated at a public health clinic.
For more information on influenza immunization in Saskatchewan, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/flu.
For information on influenza symptoms or when to seek care, call HealthLine 811 or visit www.healthlineonline.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Shirley Xie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: Shirley.Xie@health.gov.sk.ca