PUBLIC FLU SHOT PROGRAM NOW COVERS CHILDREN BETWEEN THE AGES OF 6-23 MONTHS

Saskatchewan children between the ages of 6-23 months are now eligible for a free, publicly funded, flu shot. The province's flu shot program focuses on protecting those individuals most at risk for complications from the flu.

"We are pleased to add this new age group to our flu shot program this year," Saskatchewan Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said. "Children in this age group are at an increased risk of hospitalization from influenza compared with healthy older children and young adults. Most hospitalizations of children less than 16 years of age were those under 23 months."

Families with children in the 6-23 month age group are encouraged to see their local public health nurses for further details on flu shot clinics, which are expected to begin in October.

In addition to the newly-added 6-23 month age group, high-risk people eligible for a free flu shot include those 65 years of age and older, residents of nursing homes and individuals of any age with chronic health conditions such as cancer, heart or lung disease.

Findlater also encouraged all residents to get vaccinated for influenza. "An annual flu shot is the best way to prevent influenza, which is a serious, highly contagious illness with symptoms such as sore throat, head and body aches, chills and fever."

In addition to public health clinics, physicians' offices also provide free flu shots to high-risk people covered under the provincial program.

People in the high-risk group can contact Regional Health Authority public health offices for information on where and when to receive publicly funded flu shots during the month of October. Beginning October 31st, members of the public who are not in the high-risk groups will be able to purchase flu shots from public health clinics as well.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083