By james art Respiratory viral disease season is here and Durham Region Health is encouraging area residents to protect themselves and others by getting their annual influenza (influenza) vaccine, as well as the updated Covid-19 KP.2 vaccine, which is targeting circulating variants.
The flu vaccine protects against the flu virus, which causes a contagious respiratory viral illness. The updated Covid-19 vaccine helps protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Influenza and Covid-19 vaccines have been shown to be very effective in reducing the risk of contracting these respiratory viruses and preventing severe illness and complications, including hospitalization and death. It is safe to have flu and Covid-19 vaccines at the same time. Both vaccines are free and recommended for those six months and older, Durham Health said.
Individuals six months and older who have previously been vaccinated against Covid-19 are encouraged to receive the updated vaccine if six months have passed since their last vaccination. Durham Region residents can get a flu and Covid-19 vaccine at select health care providers and participating pharmacies. Visit https://www.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations/ for a list of participating pharmacies.
Parents of children six months to two years of age who do not have access to a health care provider and who would like their child to receive a flu shot are encouraged to call the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Covid-19 vaccine clinic times are available through the Department of Health for children aged six months to four years who cannot be vaccinated at local pharmacies or through a healthcare provider. Appointments can be booked online by visiting durhamvaccinebooking.ca.
For more information about flu and COVID-19 vaccines, visit durham.ca/flu and durham.ca/covidvaccines.
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