FLU SHOTS AGAIN AVAILABLE FOR HEALTHY PEOPLE

Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer says regional health authorities are returning to their regular influenza vaccination programs, effective immediately.

"Health regions report that most high-risk people have been immunized," Dr. Ross Findlater said. "Public health clinics will now be using the rest of their vaccine supply to once again immunize healthy people who are interested in paying for a flu shot."

Earlier this month, Dr Findlater announced that, due to unprecedented demand for vaccine among the general population, public flu shot programs in Saskatchewan regional health authorities would be focusing on high-risk groups only for a two-to-three week period. High-risk groups include those 65 years of age and older, and those with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart or lung disease, or a number of other conditions. Babies 6 to 23 months of age were also given priority.

Regional health authority public health offices can be contacted for information on where and when to receive flu shots. The charge for healthy people is approximately $20. Children under nine need two flu shots the first time they are immunized against influenza to ensure they produce the necessary antibodies; the cost for the two shots is $25.

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For More Information, Contact:

Pete Paczko Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083