Don’t skip your influenza (flu) shot this year: Fraser Health is reminding everyone that immunization makes a difference.
The vaccine shields against several strains of flu and helps lessen the impact of emerging variants, like H3N2.
“Because of the new H3N2 variant showing up this flu season, people have asked if it’s worth it or not to get the flu vaccine this year,” says Dr. Ingrid Tyler, chief medical health officer, Fraser Health. “The answer is unequivocally yes as the vaccine likely provides some cross-protection against the H3N2 variant, and most of all helps protect you against more severe health outcomes if you do get sick. Vaccination remains your best defense against any version of flu this season.”
Getting the flu vaccine greatly reduces your chances of needing a visit to a health-care provider for flu-related symptoms. Vaccines reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death, especially for children under five, adults over 65, those who are pregnant and people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease.
By proactively getting immunized, you can help us keep our emergency departments available to support people who need care for an urgent or emergent health concern.
It’s easy to get immunized. You can register or book online through B.C.’s Get Vaccinated system or call 1-833-838-2323. If the appointment date and time you want is not available when you are booking, please log on or call again later as more appointments are being added to the system as additional vaccine supply arrives.
Flu spreads from coughing, sneezing, talking and touching contaminated surfaces or objects then touching your mouth, eyes or nose. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and cough.
In addition to getting immunized, preventive measures proven effective in reducing the spread of flu include washing your hands, staying home when sick and wearing a mask when you are sick and cannot stay away from others.
For Fraser Health information about flu and COVID-19, visit fraserhealth.ca/defence.
By taking simple steps now, you can get a head start on winter health and safety. From getting immunized against flu and COVID-19, practicing healthy habits such as washing your hands, knowing the best care option or learning how to stay safe on the roads — we have you covered. Learn more at fraserhealth.ca/WinterSetGo.
About Fraser Health:
We recognize that Fraser Health provides care on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the Coast Salish and Nlaka’pamux Nations and is home to 32 First Nations within the Fraser Salish region.
Fraser Health is dedicated to serving all Indigenous peoples, and honours the unique cultures of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit living within the Fraser Salish region.
Our hospital and community-based services are delivered by a team of 50,000+ staff, medical staff and volunteers dedicated to serving our patients, families and communities.