It's flu shot season

Everyone is susceptible to getting the flu.

It can cause serious health complications and even death, particularly for children under five, pregnant women, seniors and people with underlying health conditions.

That's why Ontario is once again offering a free flu shot for everyone six months of age and older who lives, works or goes to school in the province.

Starting this week, the free flu vaccine is available at doctors' offices and at community and workplace flu immunization clinics. It is also available for those five years of age and older through trained pharmacists at almost 2,400 pharmacies across Ontario.

Getting a flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu and it's part of a healthy lifestyle. When Ontarians get vaccinated against the flu, they build up immunity, making them stronger and more resistant to the influenza virus. It can take up to two weeks to build up immunity, so it's important to get the flu shot every year and get it early.

Preventing the flu through immunization helps keep Ontarians healthy and supports Ontario's Action Plan for Health Care by ensuring that patients get the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

Flu germs from a sneeze can travel up to six feet and can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours.

The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent illness, hospitalization and even save lives. Serious reactions from the flu vaccine are rare. Most common reactions may include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, lasting up to two days.