With outbreaks reported in Perth and Wellington, the flu season is upon us. Protect yourself and those around you! Public Health will be offering a free-walk in clinic on Tuesday, October 25, 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the Grey Bruce Health Unit, 101 17th Street East, Owen Sound. Anyone 6 months of age and older can attend, no appointment is necessary.

The flu shot is the best way people over 6 months of age can protect themselves and their families from getting sick with the flu. Certain individuals are at especially high risk; complications from influenza can have a greater impact on their health and increase the likelihood of hospitalizations. They include:

· Children aged 6 months to 5 years of age

· People aged 65 and older

· Children and adults with chronic medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, cancer)

· Residents of long-term care, retirement homes, or other chronic care facilities

· Pregnant women

· Indigenous people.

If you are a health care worker, a household contact of those at high risk and/or a person who provides care to those under 5 years of age, you are capable of transmitting influenza to this high risk population. Immunize yourself and protect this vulnerable group.

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit