Get kids vaccinated against flu: health unit

The city's medical officer of health is encouraging people to get their flu shots, as several people have been hospitalized in Sudbury due to the illness.

Those at highest risk of influenza related complications include the elderly, healthy children aged six to 23 months, pregnant women, and people of all ages with chronic medical conditions, according to a press release from the Sudbury and District Health Unit.

“I am reminding people again because we have seen potentially preventable cases of influenza, including young children, hospitalized due to the severity of their illness,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, Sudbury and district medical officer of health, said in the press release.

“This certainly highlights the importance for parents to have their children vaccinated—it is not too late. This year’s vaccine offers good protection against the strain of flu that is circulating.”

Everyone is at risk of getting the flu. However, some individuals who get the flu are at higher risk of experiencing serious complications including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections.

People can get their flu shot by phoning the health unit to make an appointment at any of the health unit's office locations. People are also welcome to drop in without an appointment at the Health Unit's main office, located at 1300 Paris St., Sudbury.

Flu shots are also available at participating walk-in clinics, community health centres, or health care providers (appointments may be needed).

Visit www.sdhu.com for more information about caring for someone who has influenza.