Peel Health offers free flu vaccine clinics in area

Peel residents can receive their free flu vaccine at community-based clinics organized by Peel Public Health. The complete schedule of clinics and information about the flu is available on the Beat the Flu Web site at www.peelregion.ca/flu.

"Influenza or the flu is a serious respiratory infection that can affect people of any age," said Dr. Eileen de Villa, the Region of Peel's associate medical officer of health. "The influenza vaccine is safe and effective and we recommend that everyone over the age of six months receives the vaccine."

In addition to Peel Public Health clinics, family doctors and some workplaces also offer influenza vaccinations. Children aged six to 12 months must, however, get their flu vaccination from their family doctor. If you received your influenza vaccine last year, you need to get immunized again this year because the flu virus changes every season.

There are many ways to protect against the flu.

Washing your hands with soap and water or cleaning your hands with an alcohol-based hand cleaner before handling or eating food, after using the toilet, after sneezing or wiping your nose and whenever your hands are dirty.

Covering your nose and mouth with disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze or coughing and sneezing in your sleeve.

Staying home if you are sick to avoid spreading your germs.

Keeping your immunizations up to date. It will help your immune system stay healthy and prevent you from getting sick with a vaccine-preventable illness.

"The clinics are located throughout Peel and are easily accessible by public transportation," said Regional Councillor Annette Groves, chair of human services. "The influenza vaccine is one of the most effective ways to control the spread of the flu in our community."

Anyone who attends at the Peel Public Health clinics should be prepared to provide proof of address such as a photo ID (driver's license, student card), a bill, OHIP card, or proof of work in Ontario. Individuals who are not fluent in English should be accompanied by a translator.

For more information on Peel Public Health's 2007- 2008 Beat the Flu Campaign, call the Region of Peel - Public Health at 905-799-7700 or visit www.peelregion.ca/flu. Caledon residents can call tollfree at 905-584-2216.

Help us Beat the Flu in Peel this winter - get your free flu vaccine at a community or workplace clinic or from your doctor.