With flu season upon us, the Provincial Government is encouraging all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to get a flu shot this year. Beginning October 25, Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) will begin hosting free flu shot clinics. Residents can also receive their shots through their family physician or local pharmacy.
Pharmacists and physicians play an important role in administering flu shots which can be provided free-of-charge. Physicians can administer the vaccine to everyone, regardless of age. Pharmacists can administer the vaccine to people five years of age and older.
Appointments for flu shot clinics hosted by the RHAs can be booked online using the Public Health Immunization Booking website. Links to the website for each health authority can be found at www.timefortheshot.ca. People can also book an appointment by calling toll-free 1-833-951-3904. Walk-in appointments will be available in the coming weeks at a number of locations. Updates will be posted to the website regarding additional appointments and walk-in options, as the information becomes available.
Public health measures will be in place at the clinics to ensure the protection of those receiving their flu shots, as well as health care staff. Everyone will be screened for symptoms of COVID-19 and must wear a mask. Individuals are asked to bring their MCP card and wear short sleeves when they go to get their flu shot. Anyone who is self-isolating due to COVID-19 should book an appointment after their self-isolation period ends.
Residents should also be aware that both COVID-19 and flu vaccinations can be administered together. Beginning October 25, anyone who has not completed the full COVID-19 series can receive both vaccinations, COVID-19 and the flu vaccination, at the same time and location.
The RHAs will also be administering flu shots to the following:
- Residents in long-term care homes; personal care homes and other residential care settings;
- Home support clients who are unable to attend public flu clinics;
- Individuals in correctional facilities;
- In-patients in acute care hospitals and health centres; and patients in other acute settings such as some ambulatory clinics; and,
- Clients admitted in mental health and addictions treatment settings.
Through the province’s publicly-funded vaccination program, approximately 235,575 people received the flu shot during the 2020-2021 season.
Quotes
“Last year, we experienced one of the best flu vaccine seasons to date, with approximately 45 per cent of the population vaccinated. We must work toward making this number even higher this year, recognizing that it is an effective means of reducing the number of people needing medical attention. We must all continue to do our part as we continue to fight COVID-19, understanding that controlling other illnesses such as the flu will help lessen the strain on our healthcare system.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
“The importance of vaccines cannot be overstated, whether it’s for COVID-19 or the flu. The best line of defense we have to protect the people of our province and create widespread immunity is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are safe and effective, and have protected people for decades. The current pandemic highlights the importance of vaccinations, including the flu shot.”
Dr. Janice Fitzgerald
Chief Medical Officer of Health
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Lesley Clarke
Health and Community Services
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