By Angela Hill

Flu shot clinics in full swing

Oct 20, 2010 | 5:16 PM

paNOW Staff

Flu shot clinics are in full swing throughout the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region.

“The first week of our flu clinics went very smoothly and we did have good uptake of our vaccine throughout the region,” said Wanda Atcheson, manager of public health nursing for the region.

Similar to previous years, there are a number of people older than 65 who accessing the vaccination, but there is a new trend also, she said.

“We have had more in the under 65 population, especially with parents of children coming in and getting it with their children.

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“I think the fact that it’s a funded vaccine this year makes it more accessible and they feel if it’s being offered they’ll take us up on it.”

This is keeping the clinics busy, but Atcheson said even at peak times the wait is no longer than 15 to 20 minutes.

“We’re very glad that people (want) to get in, get immunized. We feel that it can make a definite difference along with the other personal protection methods of washing hands and covering cough,” she  said. 

“Hopefully we’ll see a reduction in the spread of influenza virus this year.”

Regular public clinics are being held throughout the month of October, but people looking to be immunized after this month, should call public health, Atcheson said.

The influenza vaccine will be made available for children six months and older until the end of the flu season, in late March.

More information can be found online at princealbertparklandheath.com

ahill@rawlco.com