With flu season quickly approaching, health officials across the province are encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against influenza.
Ontario's Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott publicly rolled up her sleeve to receive the flu shot at a Toronto pharmacy on Monday.
"The flu shot is the best defence to reduce the risk of getting and spreading the virus," said Elliott. "The vaccine is available across the province to protect you and your family. By investing in preventative measures like the flu shot, we can help save lives and reduce the strain on our system."
Every batch of the vaccine is tested using strict guidelines for safety and quality and protects against the most common viruses expected this season, according to the province. Seniors, pregnant women, and children four and under have a higher risk of serious complications due to the flu virus.
In addition to getting the flu shot, health officials recommend area residents wash their hands more often, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces on a regular basis. Anyone feeling sick is also advised to stay home and cover their mouth when coughing and sneezing.
In an effort to get more Ontarians to get the shot, Elliott is encouraging colleagues, community leaders, and people across the province to share their flu shot story on social media using the hashtag #FightTheFlu.
Public health officials continue to fight what they call myths about the influenza vaccine.
"We commonly hear that the flu shot gives you the flu, which is a big myth because the flu vaccine is not a live vaccine," said Mary Lou Albanese, manager of infectious disease control at the Middlesex London Health Unit.
During the last flu season, there were 8,908 flu-related hospitalizations and 619 deaths due to complications from the virus in Ontario.
The flu shot is now available for free from doctors or nurse practitioners, pharmacies, and public health units. For more information about the flu and where to get the vaccine, visit ontario.ca/flu.
