The Sudbury and District Health Unit says it has received a small batch of flu vaccines available for “high priority groups”.
High priority groups include young children under five, anyone over the age of 65, individuals of any age living in a long-term care home, pregnant women, and people with acute and chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart conditions and cancer.
Justeen Mansourian-Christakos, an infectious diseases nurse with the health unit, said they are expecting a larger shipment of influenza vaccines by the end of October.
At that time anyone who wants the flu vaccine can get it through their family physician, their pharmacist, or by booking an appointment with the health unit by calling 705-522-9200 or visiting sdhu.com.
Although people of all ages can become ill with influenza, some people do suffer severe complications including ear infections, pneumonia, and even death.
The elderly, those with chronic medical conditions, and children between the ages of six and 59 months are at a higher risk for developing influenza-related complications.
Anyone in the high-risk priority group can currently contact the health unit or their family physician for the vaccine.
This season's vaccine provides protection against two Type A influenza strains and one Type B strain.
The flu season typically starts in mid-October and ends in mid-April.
