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| Ontario Health Minister Deb Matthews receives her flu shot |
October 24, 2012
Toronto Public Health flu clinics begin tomorrow
Free flu shots will be available starting tomorrow at Toronto Public Health clinics. A total of 42 clinics will operate at 13 locations across the city between October 25 and January 10.
“Everyone is at risk from getting the flu. I recommend getting this year’s updated vaccine from one of our clinics, your family doctor or a participating pharmacy,” said Dr. David McKeown, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health. “The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to loved ones and co-workers.”
Media Availability/Photo Opportunity: Tomorrow at 11:30 a.m., Dr. McKeown and Councillor John Filion (Ward 23 Willowdale), Chair of the Board of Health, will be at the Atrium on Bay clinic (main floor, street level, west end) getting the flu shot and will be available for media interviews between 11:30 a.m. and noon.
The flu vaccine is free for people six months and older who live, work or attend school in Ontario.
The most common symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, muscle aches, headaches, runny nose, sore throat, cough, weakness and tiredness lasting up to a week, though a cough can sometimes last for several weeks. Children can experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, complications from the flu can lead to pneumonia, ear infections, dehydration and, in rare cases, death.
As well as getting the flu shot, Toronto Public Health recommends frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve and staying at home when you are feeling ill. For the full flu vaccination clinic schedule or more information, visit http://www.toronto.ca/health/flu/ or call 416-338-7600.
