It's getting to that time of year where a simple uncovered cough, or sneeze, can spread one of winter's nasty illnesses -- influenza. Toronto Public Health today opened the first of five free flu vaccination clinics in an effort to prevent the disease from spreading.
"The flu vaccine continues to be a very effective of actually protecting oneself and those around you from influenza," says Chief Medical Officer, Eileen de Villa.
"Other things you can do would include regularly washing your hands with soap and water ... or using an alcohol-based hand rub."
Make an appointment at tphbookings.ca
| DATE | LOCATION | TIME |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, October 27 | Toronto Reference Library 789 Yonge Street |
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. |
| Saturday, October 28 | Centerpoint Mall 6600 Yonge Street |
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
| Thursday, November 2 | East York Town Centre 45 Overlea Boulevard |
2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. |
| Saturday, November 4 | Cloverdale Mall 250 The East Mall |
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
| Friday, November 17 | Woodbine Mall 500 Rexdale Boulevard |
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Last year there were 3,128 recorded cases of the flu in the city, but medical officials believe the true number would be higher. Across Canada, around 12,000 cases are reported each year, and as many as 3,000 people die from influenza, or from complications linked to it.
Young children are most susceptible to picking up influenza, through germs left on surfaces like toys, counter tops and door handles. Other at-risk groups include the elderly, pregnant women and those who already have respiratory conditions.
But Toronto Public Health officials warn anyone can get the flu, and are urging people to make the most of free vaccination clinics to get immunised.
"Even those of us who are healthy and don't have underlying conditions can end up with complications," says Dr. Barbara Yaffe from Toronto Public Health.