#RCOServiceChallenge: Flu Shots
This week’s service challenge theme is flu shots, which have recently been made available for the public in Ontario. Flu shots are especially important in preventing a “twindemic” of influenza and COVID-19.
Flu shots are a form of service as well as a form of self-care. By getting immunized, you protect yourself in case you are exposed to the viruses in the vaccine, or if you do contract the virus, reduce the severity. Both of these impacts can help reduce demands on the healthcare system, which is especially important amidst a pandemic, and a great way to help your community. Lastly, it is a way of protecting the people around you, especially those who are at higher risk of complications from the flu - when you get immunized, you are less likely to spread the flu.
Anyone that “works or attends school in Ontario is eligible to receive the publicly funded flu vaccine.” This year, the flu vaccine covers four strains of influenza (two influenza A and two influenza B strains), with a trivalent option (three strains) for those over 65. Young children require two doses of the quadrivalent vaccine. Individuals aged 5-64 can get a flu shot at Ottawa Public Health Community Clinics, health care providers, or participating pharmacies. Ottawa Public Health currently booked for the week of October 29th to November fourth, however, new appointment times are released each Thursday.
It is also important to keep in mind that due to the strain on supplies and healthcare services, flu shot appointments may have to be canceled in some regions and rescheduled. While this can be frustrating, it is important to not be dissuaded - flu shots a valuable form of service, and certainly worth the wait.
More information about influenza and flu shots can be found at the following links.
