Fall, 2010
Believe it or not, it’s time to start thinking about how to protect you and your family against the flu virus. Below you will find answers to some frequently asked questions as well as information about how Cleveland Clinic Canada is helping to protect patients against the flu this year.
Do I need to get a flu shot this year if I got the H1N1 and/or seasonal flu shot last year?
Each year there is a new vaccine to protect against new strains of the influenza (flu) virus. This year there will be only one vaccine, which will provide protection against a different strain of the H3N2 influenza family, plus last year’s H1N1 flu and a Type B strain.
When is the best time to get a flu shot?
The best time to get your vaccination is early, between October and December, before the number of flu cases increases in Canada. But the flu shot can still be effective even if you put off getting it until later in the season. It takes about two weeks after immunization for the flu shot to give you full protection.
Who is at high risk for the flu?
- Young children
- Anyone 50 or older
- Anyone with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease
- Pregnant women
- Healthcare workers
- Caregivers of infants
This year our clinic will once again be offering the flu vaccine to our Cleveland Clinic Canada patients. While there is no fee for this service, we will require you to bring a valid OHIP card.
We are awaiting our shipment of the vaccine from Public Health Canada and will make it available when it arrives. In late October, please check our website or call 416.507.6600 for more information on how to book an appointment./p>