The annual war against the influenza virus is ramping up as the Sudbury and District Health Unit offers its first free flu-shot clinic on Nov. 1.
The clinic is open 2-7 p.m. at Tom Davies Square, but residents can also get their flu shots at participating walk-in clinics, community health centres, or from their doctors.
According to a press release from the health unit, the normal flu season in North America runs from November to April.
"You need a new flu shot every year because the flu virus and the vaccine change every year," Lisa Schell, manager of clinical services for the health unit, stated in the press release.
"This year's vaccine contains three different strains, one of which is the pandemic H1N1 strain. If you get your flu shot in October or November, it will protect you for the entire flu season."
While most people only suffer mild symptoms, the flu virus can cause severe complications including ear infections, pneumonia, and death. The very young, the elderly, and those with medical complications or compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to the virus.
Last year's H1N1, or swine flu, break out caused extensive wait times at the emergency department at St. Joseph's Health Centre, as well as lineups at the city's walk-in clinics. A special H1N1 clinic was opened to relieve stress at the hospital and walk-in clinics.
