January 15, 2019
The TBDHU has scheduled two additional flu shot clinics to provide families with children more access to the flu shot.
The clinics will be held from 9:00am to 12:00pm on Thursday, January 17, and Thursday, January 24, at the Health Unit’s main office at 999 Balmoral Street (corner of William Street). An Ontario Health card is not needed for these clinics. No appointment is necessary; families can just drop in.
As previously reported, children are particularly vulnerable to H1N1, the strain of the virus that is currently the dominant circulating strain. This flu season has already seen increased activity in children, including a high rate of hospitalizations in other areas of the country. This year's flu shot provides protection against H1N1. The Health Unit reminds the public that it isn’t too late to get the flu vaccine, as the flu season typically lasts well into the spring months. It’s important that everyone in the family is vaccinated, so high-risk groups like infants under 6 months and other individuals who are unable to get the flu shot are protected.
For families with children over the age of 5, the flu shot is available at local pharmacies with proof of an Ontario Health Card. Children under 5 must be immunized by a health care provider (i.e. physician, nurse, or nurse practitioner) including the TBDHU.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, muscle aches, extreme tiredness/fatigue and chest discomfort and/or coughing. With this flu season impacting children at a higher rate, parents are encouraged to watch for symptoms of illness progressing to a more severe respiratory infection. These may include a fever that doesn't get better within a couple of days, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing. These symptoms are a sign that medical assistance may be needed and parents are encouraged to take their children to their health care provider or local emergency department. Telehealth nurses are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-866-797-0000. An Ontario Health Card number is not required and all information is confidential.
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For more local information, visit thunderbayflu.ca. Immunization nurses are also available Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm by calling 625-5900 or toll-free at 1-888-294-6630.