Ontario Pharmacists & Toronto Public Health Clinics: Free Flu Shots Oct.25, 2012 – Jan.10, 2013

This video presents  “You and the Flu”:

  • “Have you ever wondered how the flu vaccine is created, and how it helps you and your family stay flu free?”

Influenza, commonly known as “the flu” is a serious, acute respiratory illness that can lead to pneumonia. It is caused by a virus.

Recently, Ontario expanded the role of pharmacists by adding the following new duties in their pharmacy services :

  • Giving the publicly funded flu shot
  • Renew or adapt existing prescriptions
  • Prescribe medication to help people quit smoking
  • Demonstrate how to use an asthma inhaler or inject insulin
  • Support patients who have a chronic disease, such as diabetes, monitor their condition

This year it’s more convenient than ever; you can get the flu shot from your doctor, a clinic and now at participating pharmacies across Ontario:

  • Beginning this year, Ontarians can visit participating pharmacies where specially trained pharmacists will administer flu vaccine to individuals five years of age and older

The flu vaccine is FREE for people six months and older who live, work or attend school in Ontario.

First, check with your medical doctor about taking the flu shot (especially, if this is your first time to take it).

Furthermore, starting today, 42 Toronto Public Health clinics provide the flu vaccine:

  • All locations are wheelchair accessible and parking is available
  • For more information, please call: 1-877-844-1944 or 416-338-7600

Also, Toronto Public Health recommends frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve and staying at home when you are feeling ill.

Please click here for more info about the flu and the flu vaccine.

Ontario Pharmacists & Toronto Public Health Clinics: Free Flu Shots Oct.25, 2012 - Jan.10, 2013
Ontario Pharmacists & Toronto Public Health Clinics: Free Flu Shots Oct.25, 2012 – Jan.10, 2013

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

NEWS RELEASE

October 24, 2012

Toronto Public Health flu clinics begin tomorrow

Free flu shots will be available starting tomorrow at Toronto Public Health clinics. A total of 42 clinics will operate at 13 locations across the city between October 25 and January 10.

“Everyone is at risk from getting the flu. I recommend getting this year’s updated vaccine from one of our clinics, your family doctor or a participating pharmacy,” said Dr. David McKeown, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health. “The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to loved ones and co-workers.”

Media Availability/Photo Opportunity: Tomorrow at 11:30 a.m., Dr. McKeown and Councillor John Filion (Ward 23 Willowdale), Chair of the Board of Health, will be at the Atrium on Bay clinic (main floor, street level, west end) getting the flu shot and will be available for media interviews between 11:30 a.m. and noon.

The flu vaccine is free for people six months and older who live, work or attend school in Ontario.

The most common symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, muscle aches, headaches, runny nose, sore throat, cough, weakness and tiredness lasting up to a week, though a cough can sometimes last for several weeks. Children can experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, complications from the flu can lead to pneumonia, ear infections, dehydration and, in rare cases, death.

As well as getting the flu shot, Toronto Public Health recommends frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve and staying at home when you are feeling ill. For the full flu vaccination clinic schedule or more information, visit http://www.toronto.ca/health/flu/ or call 416-338-7600.

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto’s government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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