Flu clinics across Saskatchewan set to open soon

REGINA – Flu clinics across Saskatchewan are set to open next week.

Beginning October 14th the free vaccine will be offered to all Saskatchewan residents six months or older.

“We strongly encourage people to get the flu vaccine early in the season,” Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab said.

“Flu can spread quickly, and can cause serious illness. The vaccine is a safe, effective way to protect yourself and those close to you.”

The flu shot is recommended for anyone over the age of six months and older but it is important for people at high risk to get influenza:

• children under five;
• pregnant women;
• adults 65 and older;
• nursing home residents;
• people with a chronic health condition; and
• caregivers and contacts of people at high risk.

You can visit your health region’s website to find detailed information about clinic locations, dates and times.

Injections will be available immediately, but FluMist nasal vaccine is also expected to be available in most health regions by October 20th.
Families who have children aged two to 17 may wish to attend the clinics that start after October 20th.

This year, all health regions are adopting a new policy where health care staff are required to either get the flu shot or wear a mask in patient and client areas during flu season.