H1N1 IMMUNIZATIONS ENCOURAGED FOR ALL AND ESPECIALLY YOUNG MEN

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health thanks all Saskatchewan residents who have received their H1N1 pandemic vaccination and encourages anyone who has not yet received the vaccination to consider doing so, especially people with underlying health conditions and young adult males.

The overall vaccination rate for Saskatchewan's general population is at just below 50 per cent which is one of the best in the country, however it is much lower for young men between the ages of 18 and 34 at only 22 per cent.

"While seven out of 10 primary school children are vaccinated, only two out of 10 young adult males are vaccinated and this is an age group that has shown to be vulnerable to serious disease," Provincial Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Moira McKinnon said. "With everyone back at work and school after the holidays there is an increased risk of a potential third wave of illness so it is important to consider getting vaccinated to protect yourself, friends and family."

A breakdown of the vaccination totals by age and gender, excluding First Nations, is attached. Approximately four thousand people a week in Saskatchewan are still getting vaccinated.

While mass clinics have concluded in most health regions, vaccinations are still available by appointment. Please check the website or phone the public health office in your health region.

Visit http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/flu for further information.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083