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Flu shots are even more important during COVID

November 10th, 2020

Points West Living Lloydminster held its seasonal influenza immunization clinic this year on October 27. Demand for the annual vaccine has been high this year as health officials recommend that everyone over the age of 9-months get the shot. It is particularly important for those who could become seriously ill if they contracted seasonal influenza, or the people close to them. And of utmost importance when combined with the risk of COVID-19.

Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, issued a statement in mid-October warning of the potential risks of contracting both seasonal influenza and COVID-19 at the same time. Her statement includes the following advice:

“This year it is more important than ever to get your flu shot.

The flu shot provides protection against infection with influenza A and B viruses that are expected to circulate in the Canadian population this fall and winter while COVID-19 activity continues. Although the flu shot doesn't provide protection against infection with the virus that causes COVID-19, it will help reduce the risk of you getting the flu before, during or after a possible COVID-19 infection. Having both illnesses close together in time, or at the same time, could put you at higher risk for severe illness.

Getting the flu shot protects you and those around you, providing you protection from infection and serious illness, and reducing the likelihood of you spreading the illness to others. By keeping you and others healthier, the flu shot is also an important prevention measure to help reduce the burden on Canada's health care system during this unprecedented time.” 

Kudos to those residents and employee care partners who are doing their bit to keep themselves and those around them healthy this winter.

Painless process

According to PWL Lloydminster General Manager Sarah Walker, the whole flu shot clinic process was rather painless. “The team from Care RX was such a pleasure to have in our community,” she says, “and the resident feedback was that Courtney and Brendan were so skilled residents didn’t even feel the needle.”

Photo: Resident Norbert Koch readies himself for the seasonal influenza immunization – the flu shot – at PWL Lloydminster’s clinic on October 27. Courtney of Care RX readies the needle. Apparently, the Care RX team was so skilled, residents didn’t feel any pain.

More photos at Flickr: Flu shots are an even better idea than usual during COVID