IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING FLU VACCINE SUPPLY

Public Health has let us know they will no longer be receiving any more Flu Zone (6mth - 64 years) or the Flu Mist vaccine (children aged 2-17).

There has been increased demand for influenza vaccine this year and Public Health has been unable to keep up. 

However we will continue to receive the High dose QIV vaccine for seniors  65 +

This situation is occurring all over the province, public health has suggested that patients call round there local pharmacies to see if they have the regular flu vaccine in stock, but it is likely they will not.

We apologize for the inconvenience, but unfortunately at this time it is out of our control.

 Bathurst Patients:

You can receive the flu shot: 

• by booking an appointment with the nursing team to have your shot
• or during your regular appointments - tell reception you want a flu shot when you check-in

Call 416-603-5888 to make an appointment. Plan to stay for 10-15 minutes afterwards in case of any reaction. If you have received your flu shot outside of our clinic, please tell us so we can update your records.

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Garrison Creek Patients

You can receive the flu shot:

• during our flu clinic on Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:00 - 4:00 pm, and Saturdays 11:00 am - 1:00 pm starting November 6 until December 6 (by appointments only)
• during your regular appointments - tell reception you want a flu shot when you check-in

Call 416-603-5888 to make an appointment. Plan to stay for 10-15 minutes afterwards in case of any reaction. If you have received your flu shot outside of our clinic, please tell us so we can update your records.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can get the flu shot?

Everyone can benefit from getting the flu shot. All individuals 6 months and older may receive the flu shot.

The following are individuals at greatest risk of flu illness complications:

• Adults aged 65 years or older
• Children aged younger than 6 years
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with chronic health conditions
• Those living in nursing homes and chronic care facilities

It is highly recommended that health care providers and that individuals working or living with persons with chronic health conditions get the flu shot.

2. Who should not get the flu shot?

• If you have had a severe allergic reaction with a previous flu shot
• Children under 6 months of age
• If you previously developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome within 6 weeks of receiving the flu shot
• If you currently have a fever.

3. What kind of flu shot will I get?

• Adults aged 65+ will receive a High-Dose flu vaccine, it is the preferred vaccine for seniors. It provides better protection against influenza A than the standard vaccine. Influenza A, H3N2 can make seniors very sick.
• Children - Choose the Vaccine for Your Child

1. Flu vaccine by injection, for children ages six to 23 months old
2. Flu vaccine by injection or as a nasal spray, for children ages two to 17 years

Both vaccines work well and will protect against four strains of the flu virus. Children under 9 years, getting their first flu vaccine ever, need a second dose at least four weeks after the first dose.

4. My child is afraid of needles, what option do I have?

• The flu vaccine can be given through the nose. It is called FluMist and is FREE for children ages 2 to 17.
• FluMIST contains the live flu virus. As with all live vaccines, there may be some side effects including a runny of stuffy nose, cough, muscle aches, chills and fever.

5. Will the flu shot make me sick?

The answer is NO.

• The flu shot does not contain the live virus.
• Some people might get mild flu like symptoms such as a mild fever, fatigue and muscle aches because of your body’s response to the vaccine.
• Soreness, redness and swelling at the site of the flu shot are more common side effects.
• Please stay in the clinic for at least 15 minutes after receiving the flu shot.
• Let your health care provider know if you are experiencing reactions such as faintness, difficulty breathing or tightness in your chest.

6. I received the flu shot last year. Do I need to get another one?

• The flu shot does not provide long term protection from the flu virus.
• It is recommended you get the flu shot every year because the circulating flu viruses may change from year to year.
• Experts work hard every year to create a vaccine that will protect you during the current flu season.
• There is a possibility that new flu virus strains may develop after the flu vaccine is created. You may not be fully protected against these new strains, but you may still have some protection.

7. When should I get the flu shot?

Flu season usually occurs during the months of December to May.

8. What else can I do to protect myself from getting the flu or spreading it to others?

• Wash your hands often. This is the best way to stop from getting the flu and other germs.
• Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your sleeve, NOT into your hands.