Ottawa West
 

Spread holiday cheer, not the flu. Get the H1N1 vaccine.

Posted Dec 2, 2009 By EMC News
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The bustle of shoppers in malls, travellers heading home in airports, and social gatherings of friends and family brings plenty of opportunity to spread the holiday cheer during the season. But if you have not had your H1N1 flu shot, these gatherings also provide an opportunity to spread the flu.
The number of cases of H1N1 flu virus may have decreased in Ottawa over the past week, but the virus remains in our community and continues to infect new people. With increased social activities on the way, such as family gatherings, parties and congregating in crowds, your possible exposure to the virus is increased.
“We encourage everyone to get the H1N1 vaccine,” says Dr. Isra Levy, Ottawa's medical officer of health. “It's the best protection for you and your family against the H1N1 flu virus through the holiday season and well into the New Year.”
When you get vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself, you are also protecting young infants less than six months and other people who cannot be vaccinated.
The H1N1 flu virus is unpredictable, as Ottawa residents witnessed in late October when the number of cases dramatically rose. It can also vary in intensity from one city and region to another – making it important for holiday travellers to get the vaccine.
While celebrating the season in social settings, it is also recommended to practice flu and cold prevention by covering sneezes and coughs with the sleeve or arm and washing hands regularly. You should avoid social activities when feeling ill. To minimize the chance of getting ill during the festive season, get your vaccine now.
Dr. Levy adds that the more people who get vaccinated, the better the community can build a resistance and prevent future outbreaks of the virus.
Ottawa Public Health continues to operate vaccination clinics throughout the city. The dates, times and locations are available at ottawa.ca/health .
Parents are reminded that children between six months and three years, as well as children under 10 who have chronic medical conditions, require a second dose of the H1N1 vaccine.
For more information, visit ottawa.ca/health or contact the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744.