Get the shot . . . not the flu!
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Stonewall, Man., October 7, 2011—Public health nurses around the Interlake region are preparing for this year’s flu clinics that begin the week of October 10.
This year, the flu shot is available to all Manitobans free of charge. It will include protection against three seasonal flu strains. An annual flu shot is especially important for those at increased risk of serious illness from the flu, their caregivers and close contacts. This includes seniors aged 65 or older, residents of personal care homes, children six months to four years of age, those with chronic illness, pregnant women, health care workers and first responders, individuals of Aboriginal ancestry and people who are severely overweight.
Registered nurse, Melody Hawryluk, is the Interlake region’s public health immunization coordinator. The flu clinics are a busy time of year for the public health nurses but they are an opportunity for the nurses to answer any questions people may have.
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Interlake RHA public health nurse, Connie Nixon, is among nurses
giving flu shots in 88 communities this year. Also shown is Sharon Michaluk, Interlake RHA staff member. |
“I often get asked‘What’s the big deal about flu, anyway? I don’t usually get sick, so why would I need to get a flu shot?’” Hawryluk said. “I try to remind folks that the flu is a contagious disease. It can cause serious complications for anyone. Even if you are healthy, you might be around someone who’s at high risk from the flu…a baby, your grandparents or even a friend. You don’t want to be the one spreading the flu, do you?”
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Interlake residents can attend one of 88 community clinics being held across the region or contact their local healthcare provider for their shot.
B. Call 1-888-488-2299 to listen to a message listing clinic locations and times by community.
C. For more information, contact a public health nurse in your local community health office:
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Arborg 376-5559
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Gimli 642-4595
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St. Laurent 646-2504
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Ashern 768-2585
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Gypsumville 659-5776
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Selkirk 785-7702 |
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Eriksdale 739-2161
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Lundar 762-5469
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Stonewall 467-4400 |
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Fisher Branch 372-8703
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Riverton 378-2460
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Teulon 886-4068 |