With cold and flu season fast approaching, Lambton Public Health (LPH) is launching a fall immunization campaign that takes a fresh approach to curbing the spread of germs by offering new strategies and expanded access.
Since the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ontario's Provincial Ministry of Health has worked to expand access points throughout communities, which are intended to serve as the primary resources for the general population, explains Dr. Karalyn Dueck, Medical Officer of Health for Lambton County.
A comprehensive list of pharmacies and healthcare providers that provide COVID-19 or flu vaccines can be found on the Ministry of Health website.
Currently, LPH is rolling out vaccine availability in stages:
- Early October: Individuals in hospitals and long-term care homes
- Mid-October: High-risk individuals, including:
- Children aged 6 months to 4 years
- People in or from First Nations communities
- Pregnant individuals
- People aged 65 years and older
- First responders
- Monday, Oct. 28: General public
Individuals who believe they are eligible for a COVID-19 or flu vaccine should call Lambton Public Health at 519-383-8331.
“We’re also focusing on children who might not have easy access to COVID-19 and flu vaccines through a pharmacy or their primary care provider. These clinics will start on Tuesday, October 17, and anyone wishing to book for their child can call the same phone number (519-383-8331),” adds Dueck.
Dueck emphasizes the importance of getting COVID-19 and flu vaccines to help the body learn to fight off these illnesses. “Once you get the vaccine, if you encounter the COVID-19 virus, your body has already practiced fighting it off, so you'll experience less severe symptoms or even none at all,” she says.
This year, a new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is available for adults aged 60 and over, along with a new monoclonal antibody treatment for newborns in hospitals.
The health unit also focuses on reaching special populations, including homebound individuals, by offering a mobile clinic for those who may need assistance accessing a vaccine.
When it comes to staying well this cold and flu season, Dueck says it all comes down to layers of protection. “Vaccinations are one layer of protection. Staying home when you're sick, considering wearing a mask while you're recovering from illness or if you're at risk, practicing good hand hygiene, and sneezing or coughing into your elbow are all important,” says Dueck.
“And if you’re at high risk, talk with your healthcare provider about any antiviral treatment options if you do get sick.”