PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. – The Prince Albert Parkland Health Region (PAPHR) had to cancel a drop-in flu clinic Monday after running out of vaccines.
With the support of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, additional vaccine supplies are expected to arrive in the city later today.
The region says its ability to administer flu shots depends on the safe arrival of the anticipated shipment and extremely cold temperatures pose a risk during transport.
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A significant surge of people seeking immunization depleted the region’s inventory in Prince Albert. This led to the cancellation of a drop-in clinic at MacIntosh Mall.
PAPHR has tentatively rescheduled a drop-in clinic at the mall for Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The ministry is working with the Public Health Agency of Canada to ensure communities have vaccine supplies as needed.
“In addition to the flu shot, please use hand hygiene and cough etiquette, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus,” said Dr. Khami Chokani, medical health officer.
“It will assist in protecting you, your family and friends from influenza.”
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Last Friday, the PAPHR said most of the confirmed and serious cases are the H1N1 influenza A virus. This strain is included in the free vaccine.
Flu clinics scheduled Monday in the nearby communities of Shellbrook and Big River continued as planned.
Additional clinics will be posted on the region’s website and people can call HealthLine at 811.
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