Flu shot is available now.

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The "flu shot" is an annual immunization against three strains of the influenza (flu) viruses expected to circulate for that year. The flu shot is safe and it's the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from the flu.

Who should get the flu shot?

All Ontarians should get their flu shot. Unless there is a medical reason not to, everyone aged 6 months or older can benefit from getting the seasonal flu shot.

Who is at the highest risk of flu complications?

Getting immunized is especially important for some people because they have a greater risk of developing complications from the flu. People in close contact or those who live with people at high risk of complications should also get immunized as early as possible. Remember, you need a flu shot every year.

The flu shot is especially important for:

• people with weakened immune systems or with chronic conditions
• young children 6 months above
• the elderly 65 and older
• pregnant women
• family members and those who provide care to people in the groups listed above should also get the flu vaccine to protect themselves and those around them.

The risk of the vaccine causing serious harm is very small. However, you should always discuss the benefits and risks of any immunization with your health care provider.

Who should not get the flu shot?

• Infants under 6 months of age (the current vaccine is not recommended for this age group).
• Anyone with a serious allergy (anaphylaxis) to any ingredient in the vaccine. A serious allergic reaction usually means that the person develops hives, swelling of the mouth and throat or has trouble breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or shock after exposure to the ingredient they are allergic to. Your health care provider can tell you which components are in the specific vaccine. Some vaccines contain small quantities of antibiotics or preservatives.
• Anyone who had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the influenza vaccine.
• Anyone who developed Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) within 8 weeks of a previous influenza immunization should avoid influenza immunization in the future. The vaccine should be temporarily delayed in the following persons:
• Anyone with a moderate to severe acute illness with fever should usually wait until the symptoms subside before being immunized. However, people with a minor illness, with or without a fever (e.g., a cold), could still get the influenza vaccine.
• Immunization should be delayed in individuals with an evolving neurologic disorder, but should be considered when the disease process has been stabilized.

Make an appointment with us to receive your flu shot, please let us know as soon as possible so we can keep immunization records up to date and order the appropriate amounts of vaccine to have on hand to ensure availability and avoid wasting precious supplies.

Learn more from:

• Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care 
• Flu prevention 
• York Region Flu Clinic