It's that time of year again. Each year in BC, hundreds of people die from influenza or complications from influenza, such as pneumonia. For seniors, Influenza can lead to more serious health concerns. That why BCCPA puts a special emphasis each year on making sure care providers have current and accurate information about vaccination programs.
The best way to protect against influenza is to get immunized every year. Residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities, people 65+ and their caregivers are all eligible to receive their influenza shot for free.
The 2010-2011 vaccine provides protection against A/H1N1 (pandemic) influenza and two other influenza viruses - influenza A/H3N2 and influenza B. Public health officials in B.C. expect that we'll still see sporadic cases of H1N1 but not the type of epidemic wave we saw last year. The vaccine doesn't protect against other viruses or bacteria that may cause colds or stomach illnesses. You cannot get influenza from a flu shot.
Other ways to protect yourself and loved ones from the flu:
- wash your hands regularly
- quickly dispose of used tissues in the garbage
- cough and sneeze into your shirt sleeve rather than your hands
- stay home when you are ill
If you have more questions about flu season or the vaccine contact www.immunizebc.ca.
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