Province encouraging immunization to keep influenza at bay

With COVID-19 still running rampant in Saskatchewan, the government is once again stressing residents roll up their sleeves to get immunized against influenza.

Starting Tuesday, people in the province can book appointments to get this year’s flu vaccine. Appointments for clinics operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority can be booked online this year.

Jeannie Munro, the executive director of Rural Primary Health Care for the Saskatchewan Health Authority, says most people will already be familiar with the booking process.

“The booking system looks the same as the system we’ve been using for the COVID bookings. For those who had booked COVID shots online, it will look exactly the same,” Munro said.

“You can actually make group bookings so you can book up to six people in an appointment. They’ll book them consecutively. For families, that also might help to make the process easier.”

Everyone six months of age and older can get the flu vaccine.

Residents can also receive their COVID shot and flu shot at the same time.

Saskatchewan reported zero cases of influenza last year compared to more than 2,500 confirmed lab cases in 2019.

Munro said the lack of influenza last year speaks to how effective public health orders including masking and distancing have been during the pandemic.

“It does go to show what all those measures do in preventing disease,” Munro said.

“We don’t have the same level of restrictions but I think it’s important to remind people to continue to practise all of those things.”

Residents can book appointments for flu shots online or by telephone at 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-787-5829).

Many pharmacies in the province also are an option for those interested in getting a flu shot. A list of pharmacies offering the flu vaccine can be found on the Pharmacy Association of Saskatchewan website.