Influenza season is just around the corner and there's no better time than now to make a plan to stay healthy. You know the routine: wash your hands frequently, get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. But did you know that the single best way to protect yourself and others from the seasonal flu is by getting a flu shot?
Influenza or "the flu" is an infection of the upper airway caused by the influenza virus. It spreads easily from person to person through coughing, sneezing, face-to-face contact and by touching articles such as door knobs and telephones that have been contaminated with the influenza virus. So, if you think you have the flu, stay home to avoid sharing the virus with others. The flu vaccine is available for free through the publicly funded program for those at risk and their household contacts. People who are eligible for free flu vaccine include those 65 years of age and older, people with chronic health conditions, caregivers of those at risk and other at risk groups, including young children and pregnant women.
For more information visit the ImmunizeBC website at www.immunizebc,ca or HealthLink BC at www.healthlinkbc.ca. You can also call the HealthLink at by dialling 811.
- Joanne Smrek is a clinical resource coordinator for vaccine promotion and education with Interior Health.