Peel's Beat the Flu campaign begins late due to delay

This year, Peel Public Health will start offering free influenza vaccine (flu shot) clinics in November, almost a month later than in previous years. The late start date is due to the delay in the production of flu vaccine for the 2006-2007 season. Clinics will be offered in easily accessible locations throughout Caledon, Mississauga and Brampton. Flu vaccine is free and voluntary for all residents.

"Getting the flu vaccination and washing your hands are the two most

effective methods which will help protect you and your family from getting the flu this season," said Dr. Eileen de Villa, associate medical officer of health for the Region of Peel.

The flu is spread easily through coughing, sneezing or through touching contaminated surfaces or objects such as unwashed hands, toys and eating utensils.

"If you don't have a family doctor you can get a free flu shot at a Peel Public Health clinic. You may be

asked for proof of address such as a photo ID or a bill. It's important for everyone, even for healthy people, to get a flu vaccination. It helps reduce the overcrowding in hospital emergency rooms and decrease lost time in the workplace," said regional councillor Susan DiMarco, chair of human services.

Flu vaccinations are also available through family doctors and at some workplaces. Children aged six to 12 months must get their flu vaccination from their family doctor.

A complete list of Peel Public Health flu clinics and additional information about the flu is available on the Beat the Flu Web site at peelregion.ca/flu. Residents will also find the clinic schedule in local newspapers.

To prevent getting the flu:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand cleaner before handling or eating food, after using the toilet, after sneezing or wiping your nose, or whenever hands are dirty. 2. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze.

3. Stay home if you are sick; don't spread your germs.

4. Keep your immunization up to date. It will help your immune system stay healthy and prevent you from getting sick with a vaccinepreventable illness.

During the 2005-2006 flu season, a total of 21,492 doses of flu vaccine were administered at 72 Peel Public Health clinics. Last year, 385,472 doses of vaccine were distributed to physicians, nursing agencies, long-term care homes, hospitals, workplaces and community clinics.

For more information on Peel Public Health's 2006- 2007 Influenza Immunization Campaign, call the Region of Peel - Public Health at 905-799- 7700 or visit peelregion.ca/flu. Caledon residents call toll-free at 905-584-2216.