Flu shots and the latest coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccines are now available to the general public six months of age and older.
Clayhurst residents Bill and Ruth Ross were first in line to get vaccinated Monday morning.
“I think this is a safe precaution for everyone,” Ruth said while receiving a flu shot.
A pharmacist at Craighast Guardian said: ‘When the pandemic started, demand for influenza increased before any other vaccines were available. This is the best defense against getting influenza. So by getting vaccinated, you can reduce the chance of catching the virus. “We are doing everything we can to prevent this.” Brad Bocek.
Experts say it’s even more important that the most vulnerable people get vaccinated, including the elderly, young children and people with weakened immune systems.
Bocek said the best way to prevent the disease includes the usual precautions: “If you’re going out in close quarters, it’s a good idea to use a mask. If you’re going to be out in public, the best thing to do is still Wash your hands.”
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) said the vaccines are safe and it is recommended that people receive both vaccines at the same time.
COVID-19 XBB vaccine protects against new Omicron XBB variant.
“The wording has changed a little bit. Because this is a new formulation, it is technically considered a new vaccine. So it’s not really considered a booster shot, but it does protect against our virus strain. “Now we’re seeing it in the community,” says Mary Ann Holmes, SMDHU immunization program manager.
Another respiratory virus that tends to increase in the fall is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV.
Health Canada has approved the RSV vaccine for people aged 60 and over.
“In Ontario, the vaccine will be available free of charge at public expense to residents of long-term care facilities, senior care lodges, and some retirement home residents. This vaccine will also be available to local residents for purchase. “If you’re interested, please contact your pharmacy,” Holmes said.
The vaccine costs $300.
There is Over 140 pharmacies in Simcoe Muskoka Provide vaccines for influenza and COVID-19. The health department will also run COVID-19 vaccination clinics in the community.