Flu and COVID shots now available to everyone in Waterloo region, Guelph starting Monday
CBC
Everyone in Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County can access flu and COVID shots starting on Monday.
The vaccines are free.
Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang is the Region of Waterloo’s medical officer of health and says getting immunized is the best way for people to protect themselves from getting respiratory illnesses.
“As we approach the fall respiratory and gastrointestinal illness season, preparations are well underway,” Wang said during last week’s regional council meeting.
“They'll be available in multiple locations such as family doctor's offices, nurse practitioners offices, and of course, more and more pharmacies. We also do hold clinics for those without OHIP cards and without family doctors, so we'll have clinics as well."
People who need to book an appointment with Region of Waterloo Public Health can do so through the region’s website. The regional clinics are by appointment only.
Public Health Ontario notes the flu is more common in the fall and winter.
Influenza spreads through coughing, sneezing or face-to-face contact. It can cause mild to severe respiratory disease and there’s a higher risk for complications for very young children, the elderly and people with medical conditions.
Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, associate medical officer of health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, says even if people aren’t worried about becoming sick themselves, the vaccine can help keep people around them healthy.
“Getting vaccinated is a simple step that helps protect not only your health, but also the health of your family, friends and community. I strongly encourage everyone to get their flu and COVID-19 shots this season,” Tenenbaum said in a release.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health also offers some vaccine clinics by appointment, which can be booked through the organization’s website.
Health Canada reports there is currently “sporadic” flu activity in southern Ontario.
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