In Thunder Bay, the health unit says it’s already seeing an increasing number of flu cases over the past two weeks. “Influenza is a serious illness that leads to hospitalizations and deaths every year in Ontario,” said Dr. Janet Demille, the health unit’s medical officer of health. “With COVID-19 and other viruses still circulating and the health care system under tremendous strain, it is especially important that people protect themselves and others,” he continued in a news release Monday. This is the first batch of vaccines available to the general public. Previous vaccination efforts were reserved for people considered to be at high risk. The province is also encouraging booster shots for COVID-19, saying it’s safe to get the COVID-19 shot and the flu shot at the same time. “Getting the flu shot as early as you can helps keep each other and our most vulnerable loved ones healthy,” said Health Minister Sylvia Jones. The COVID-19 vaccines are available to anyone over six months of age and the bivalent booster to people aged 12 and over. The health unit says people at higher risk should get the flu shot as soon as possible. People at high risk include people aged 65 and over, people with chronic illnesses, children aged 6 months to 4 years, pregnant women and indigenous peoples. Some experts say it is difficult to predict the severity of the upcoming flu season, but trends in Australia from this year could provide some clues. Australia’s seasons occur at the opposite time to North America’s, and this usually provides an idea of what to expect. CBC News previously reported that data from that country’s Ministry of Health and Aged Care showed infections were higher this year than the five-year average, with cases rising early in the season.
Where to get a flu shot in Thunder Bay and surrounding communities
As of yesterday, people at higher risk can come in for a flu shot at the TBDHU COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the city’s CLE venues, even if they don’t need a COVID-19 shot. That clinic will also continue to offer flu shots to children under 5 and accompanying family members, according to the health unit. Residents of area communities should contact their community health care provider or a pharmacy to access the flu vaccine, according to the health unit. TBDHU said it will continue to offer COVID-19 vaccine clinics in area communities and plans additional clinics in the Thunder Bay area to offer flu shots to those at higher risk and COVID-19 boosters to all who qualify. Check TBDHU Getting a flu shot page for more details. At Northwestern, people can make an appointment for a flu shot through the Northwestern Health Unit by visiting Website.
Other ways to avoid the flu
Here are some other tips from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit on how to avoid the flu:
Wash your hands often. Wear a mask especially in indoor public places or crowded places. Stay home if you are sick.
