Flu shot clinics coming soon to South Delta

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With flu (influenza) season approaching, Fraser Health’s Chief Medical Health Officer is reminding Fraser Health residents the flu shot is the best protection against the flu virus and its complications. And flu shot clinics are coming soon to South Delta.

“The flu is highly contagious and can cause severe complications for those with heart, lung and other health problems. Even if you don’t become severely ill, getting the flu can mean several missed days of school, work and other activities, said Dr. Paul Van Buynder. “The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to help people stay healthy, prevent illness, and even save lives.”

The flu season usually runs from November to April with an estimated 10-20 per cent of people infected each year. A person can have the flu virus without knowing it, and pass it to someone who may become seriously ill. Several hundred Fraser Health residents, mainly seniors, die every year from complications of influenza infection.

This year’s flu vaccination campaign begins the week of Oct. 11. Last year, more than 285,000 seasonal flu shots were provided free of charge to those at risk of complications from the flu.

“The flu shot is a bargain – it is free for many people, or very low cost if you are not eligible for the free flu shot compared with a cost of more than $1,000 per day for the healthcare system if you end up in the hospital with the flu,” Van Buynder said.

In Ladner, flu shot clinics will be held on:

• Nov. 1 at All Saints Anglican Church (4755 Arthur Dr.—604-952-3550) on Nov. 1 from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.,

• Nov. 10 at the McKee Senior Centre (5155 47th Ave. —604-952-3550) from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

• Nov. 21 at the South Delta Public Health Unit (4470 Clarence Taylor Cres. 604-952-3550) from 3-4 p.m. By appointment only.

In Tsawwassen, the clinics will be held:

• KinVillage Community Centre (5410 10th Ave.—604-952-3550) on Nov. 4 from 9-11:30 a.m.

• South Delta Rec Centre (1720 56th Street—604-952-3550) on Nov. 16 from 3:30-6 p.m.

For a complete list of public flu clinics near you, visit our website at www.fraserhealth.ca, contact your local Public Health office, or consult the BC Flu Clinic Locator at www.health.gov.bc.ca/flu . Many physician offices and pharmacies also provide vaccine free-of-charge to those who are eligible or at low cost. More information is available on the Immunize BC website at www.immunizebc.ca and the HealthLink BC website at www.healthlinkbc.ca. You can also call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 to speak to a healthcare professional.