The flu is nothing to sneeze at
As the days get colder, and the nights get longer, it’s a sure sign that flu season is on its way.
Manitoba Health encourages all Manitobans to get vaccinated against the flu — it’s free.
Along with keeping yourself from getting sick, you’ll also keep yourself from passing the flu on to other people, including children, seniors, and other vulnerable populations.
Getting the flu can mean battling a long list of unpleasantness, including:
- Fever or chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Runny nose or stuffed-up sinuses
- Muscle, body and headaches
- General fatigue and tiredness
Meanwhile, the side effects from vaccination are generally mild and pass quickly. Most people will experience only a little soreness or stiffness at the injection site. Learn more about the flu and flu vaccine at Manitoba Health.
Manitoba Health says that you can get a flu vaccine at your local public health office, nursing station, doctor’s office, pharmacy, QuickCare Clinic or ACCESS Centre. You can also go to a public health clinic nearest you; contact Health Links-Info Santé (1-888-315-9257). Contact your immunization provider to find out the best time and place to receive your immunizations and check for vaccine availability.
Public Health in Brandon has also schedule three flu clinics in Brandon — no appointment is necessary:
- Saturday, November 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Tuesday, November 8, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Thursday, November 10, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
All clinics are held at Public Health in the Town Centre. No appointment is necessary, but you must bring your Manitoba Health Card.
Contributed by BU Communications