The old saying ‘it is better to give than to receive’ may hold true for most things, but should never apply to influenza.
“It’s not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccine is still available at your local pharmacy, doctor’s office or local public health unit” says Dr. Dee Hoyano, medical health officer for Island Health. “We have already administered about 227,000 doses of vaccine this year.”
If you’re feeling under the weather staying at home when you’re sick is another excellent way to prevent infections. “Your friends, family and coworkers will appreciate it” says Hoyano.
Washing your hands frequently is the best way to avoid getting sick in the first place, but if you do fall ill, proper hand washing can help stop the spread.
Practicing good respiratory etiquette by coughing and sneezing into your sleeve and properly disposing of your tissues also helps reduce infections.
People who haven’t had flu shots are being reminded to ‘mask-up’ at Island Health care facilities.
“They will be expected to wear a mask if they have not received their flu shot in order to protect patients,” says a recent VIHA release.
Masks, information and hand sanitizers are available at key entrances across Island Health’s patient care areas.
People wishing to find out where they can get a flu shot can talk to their health care provider, pharmacist or visit www.viha.ca/flu for information.