While flu cases in Hamilton and across Ontario remain low, HPHS encourages all people who have not already received the flu vaccine to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible. Community members can find local sites to get the flu vaccine at www.hamilton.ca/public-health/clinics-services/flu-clinics. Free flu vaccines are available to anyone living, working or attending school in Ontario. Hamilton residents six months of age and older can get the flu vaccine from their primary care provider (GP, nurse or clinic) and anyone aged two and over can get the flu vaccine from a participating pharmacy. Influenza is a serious illness that affects the respiratory system. It starts suddenly and often lasts longer than a cold. Symptoms include: fever, headache, body aches, chills, fatigue, weakness, cough, runny nose, stuffy nose and sore throat.
Prevent the spread of the flu
In addition to the flu vaccine, people should also take daily precautions that can help reduce the spread of the flu and the predominant COVID-19, which include:
Wash your hands often with soap and warm water Using an alcohol-based hand scrub if there is no soap and water Cover cough and sneezing It does not touch your face Staying home when you are sick Frequently clean common objects and surfaces such as door knobs, light switches or keys. The flu virus can survive on surfaces for up to eight hours. You do not share food, drinks or personal items such as toothbrushes Rest, sleep, be active and eat nutritious foods
“Get the flu vaccine and learn about the COVID-19 vaccine, along with other daily precautions, such as staying home and away from others when you are sick, improving indoor and outdoor airflow.” “Regular hand washing, covering the cough with an arm or tissue, and regular surface cleaning are standard ways to prevent the spread of the disease.” – Dr. Bart Harvey, Associate Medical Officer of Health
Quick facts
The National Immunization Advisory Committee (NACI) recommends that COVID-19 vaccines be given at the same time as or before or after other vaccines, including the flu vaccine. There are no specific safety concerns when routine vaccines are given at the same time or within days of each other.
