Influenza Vaccine Now Available For Purchase

(October 30, 2008) Saskatoon – The influenza (flu) vaccine is now available for purchase at $20 to people who are not in a risk category through Public Health Services and private health companies. For people in a high-risk category the vaccine is available for free. 

Influenza is a contagious disease of the upper respiratory tract and is caused by a virus. It is spread by nasal droplets and symptoms can include sudden fever, chills, muscle aches, extreme tiredness and cough.  People of all ages can benefit from an annual influenza vaccine. High–risk groups include adults 65 years or older; children and adults with chronic lung, heart and kidney conditions, cancer, diabetes and immune disorders; children and adolescents receiving long-term A.S.A.; healthy children ages 6 to 23 months and pregnant women

“Protection from influenza begins about two weeks after immunization and lasts for about six months or longer in the general population,” says Karen Grauer, Manager, Public Health Services, Saskatoon Health Region.  “The flu vaccine prevents influenza illness among 70 - 90% of healthy adults.

People who should not get a flu vaccine include infants younger than six months, those who have had life-threatening allergic reactions to the vaccine or any of its components, or people who have developed Guillain Barre Syndrome within eight weeks following flu immunization.

Drop-in clinics for high-risk groups will run until November 2.  After November 2, individuals are invited to book an appointment by calling (306) 655-4FLU (655-4358). The vaccine is also available for purchase to people who do not qualify for a free vaccine by appointment through Public Health Services at 655-4FLU. Private health companies may also provide vaccine for sale to the public. The flu vaccine is available until March 31, 2009.

For those who are in a risk category, the vaccine is free.  For those who fall outside a risk category, it is $20.00.             

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For more information contact:

Saskatoon Health Region

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