Submitted by Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority
Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority’s public health flu clinics have received a tremendous response this year.
According to regional immunization coordinator Wendy Fontaine, clinics in major centres like Selkirk, Beausejour, Gimli, Stonewall and Ashern are still accepting appointments.
“People who have had troubles securing a flu shot in smaller communities will still be able to access clinics in larger communities that can accommodate greater numbers of people. Our flu clinic staff who answer the phone line can identify options available for people to secure their flu shot. I encourage people to call even it if looks like the clinic serving your area is full,” Fontaine said.
Options to public health flu clinics for people to get their flu shot can include local pharmacies, primary care providers (such as your family doctors or nurse practitioner) and public health nurses. The situation can vary by community so a conversation is helpful when determining the best available options.
This is the first year the Interlake-Eastern RHA has required appointments for flu shots.
Appointments help public health staff manage the number of people attending a clinic at any given time so that physical distancing requirements can be respected. Given infection prevention and control requirements for COVID-19, not all sites where clinics have typically been hosted could be used this year.
Fontaine added that there is enough flu vaccine to address the region’s needs.
“We increased our vaccine order this year recognizing that we’d see increased demand. It’s important to get your shot as we want to reduce the number of people who experience the flu, particularly at this time of pandemic response,” Fontaine added.
For more information on flu clinic appointments, visit www.is.gd/fluclinics and call 1-877-979-9355 for further information or to book your appointment (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays in November). If the line is busy, please try again at a later time. People are also encouraged to inquire if their local pharmacy or care provider is offering flu vaccinations.
