P.E.I. distributing 77,000 doses of influenza vaccine - The Journal Pioneer

The province has purchased 77,000 doses of influenza vaccine and almost all have been distributed.

A spokeswoman for the department of Health and Wellness says the vaccine has been distributed to pharmacies, family physician offices and public health nursing as well as to long-term care facilities and hospitals.

The doses include 22,300 high dose influenza vaccine for those over 65 and 4,000 doses of Flumist.

Public Health nursing started its clinics recently. Pharmacies have been administering the influenza vaccine over the past couple weeks.

Chief public health officer Dr. Heather Morrison is strongly promoting the flu vaccine.

“Getting a flu shot and washing your hands frequently is the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu or spreading the flu to those around you,” she says. 

“All Islanders are encouraged to protect themselves and get immunized, especially those who are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from influenza, such as young children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems or other chronic health conditions."

Call 1-844-975-3303 to make an appointment with public health for a flu shot or visit princeedwardisland.ca/flu for more information and clinic locations.

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