Journal Staff
It’s that time of year, when Lambton Public Health encourages residents to protect themselves and those around them by getting a free flu shot.
Last year there were seven confirmed influenza-related deaths in Sarnia-Lambton, and 90 lab-confirmed cases. One case of flu has already been confirmed this fall.
"We do everything we can to protect ourselves and our family, but you can't always protect them from the germs others carry," said supervisor Erin Courtney.
"The best defence is a flu shot. It's the safest way to prevent the spread of the flu and the best way to protect loved ones."
A total of 31 pharmacies in Sarnia-Lambton now have the vaccine, although pharmacists can't give it to anyone under the age of five.
Community clinics are also available at:
Lambton Public Health, Point Edward: Oct. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Nov. 7 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Lambton College: on Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Inn of the Good Shepherd, on Nov. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Health-care providers, such as family doctors and nurse practitioners, can also deliver the shots.
For a full list of clinics, dates, and participating pharmacies, visit www.lambtonhealth.on.ca
After getting the flu shot, it takes about two weeks for full protection to kick in. Protection lasts four to six months.
Flu season normally runs from November to April. It is one of the most communicable diseases and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching infected surfaces.
The illness lasts two to seven days; sometimes longer in the elderly and those with health problems.
Those most at risk of developing flu-related complications are adults 65 and older, children six month to five years, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, Indigenous peoples and residents of long-term care homes.