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4 HEALTH CARE - Thursday , September 30, 2010 October is Influenza Immunization Awareness Month Don't get the flu-- get your shot Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infection of the airways caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms typically last for 7 to 10 days, but some people may experience a cough and weakness for up to six weeks. Some people, such as children between the ages of six months and four years, pregnant women, children and adults with chronic health conditions, morbidly obese, and Aboriginal peoples are at higher risk of severe disease or complications. October is Influenza Immunization Awareness Month across Canada. Now is the best time to get immunized! The 2010-2011 trivalent inactivated vaccine provides protection against influenza type A/H1N1 (the recent pandemic strain) and influenza types A/ H3N2 and B. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that all Canadians get the influenza vaccine. However, immunization priority for influenza should be given to those persons at high risk of related complications, those capable of transmitting influenza to individuals at high risk of complications (for example healthcare workers and other care providers), and those who provide essential community services. Immunization against the influenza virus is a safe and effective way to prevent getting sick with and spreading the virus, and because the influenza viruses are always changing, annual vaccination is recommended. Halton Region flu clinics Halton Region Health Department offers free influenza (flu) immunization clinics from the months of October to January. Influenza immunization is also available from your family doctor. Additional clinics will be held at various participating workplaces. Check with your employer to find out if a flu clinic is being planned at your workplace. Some pharmacies will also be hosting flu immunization clinics. Georgetown Seniors Centre flu shot clinic: On Monday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Georgetown Seniors Centre. No appointment necessary.