As Flu concerns begin to rise, Northern Health offers Family Flu / COVID Clinic Days Friday, Saturday

The Prince Rupert health Unit in the Ocean Centre
is hosting two Drop In Flu and COVID clinics on Friday
and Saturday for residents of the region

The 2022 strain of the flu seems to be taking much of its toll on younger people so far this season, including some very sad accounts of deaths in the last month recorded in British Columbia, said to be related to the Flu and Respiratory Syncytial virus RSV,  as it both move further into the flu season.

The reason given for such a surge of cases coming from the lack of exposure to respiratory illnesses during the COVID period of the last two years, that owing to a range of protection methods that had been put in place in response to the COVID situation.

Towards providing as much access to the flu vaccine as possible, Northern Health has announced two Family Drop In Flu and COVID Clinics for Prince Rupert, set to take place at the Northern Health Prince Rupert Health Unit in the Ocean Centre on Friday and Saturday.

Northern Health has also reminded residents of the North Coast that Flu shots are also available at local pharmacies - register and book through the Get Vaccinated system online at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca or by calling 1-833-838-2323 (toll free). 

Some primary care provider's offices have flu shots as well - please contact them directly to book. 

For more information on COVID-19 and Influenza (flu) clinics in Northern BC the recommend a review of their COVID-19 and flu immunization page here.

Earlier this week it was noted that so far the vaccination rate for young people in BC was only at twenty percent, a level which had health officials and the provincial government urging parents to take advantage of the vaccination program in place in the province.

“As we head into the holiday season, I strongly encourage families and caregivers to get their children vaccinated against influenza, especially if they’re planning to spend time with elderly loved ones. I know families are busy, especially at this time of year, but it is important to make this part of your plans. To help, we are making it even easier to get your child immunized in the coming days. This helps ensure everyone can stay healthy and enjoy the festivities.” -- Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer. 

Follow the Prince Rupert specific Social Media page for more notes of interest to residents of the North Coast.

More notes on Northern Health themes can be found through our archive page.