Get the Flu Shot, not the Flu!

The influenza virus, commonly referred to as “the flu”, is an easily transmitted respiratory illness. Symptoms of influenza include fever, headaches, chills, muscle aches, sneezing and coughing. People with the flu may experience symptoms for up to 10 days. Influenza can result in hospitalization and can be fatal.

Influenza virus is spread from person-to-person through the air (in droplets generated by coughing and sneezing) or by anything that has been contaminated with respiratory secretions (ie - hands, doorknobs, light switches, phones, etc). It is not possible to become sick with the flu from the vaccine, as it does not contain live influenza virus, and therefore cannot cause infection.

Along with frequent handwashing, the most effective way to protect yourself against influenza is to get an annual flu shot.

Everyone should consider vaccination - we are all susceptible to this virus. Occupation and environment are factors which may increase your risk of infection, for example people working in the healthcare trades and those who live / work in close quarters with others. We can protect ourselves and others through vaccination. If we prevent ourselves from becoming sick with influenza via immunization, it can help us from infecting others who may be at higher risk for the illness, such as children, elders and immunocompromised persons. The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women.

Each year, Garrison Petawawa organizes a flu campaign to promote a healthy environment and to keep our military protected against influenza. The Canadian Forces Surgeon General strongly recommends that all members receive the flu vaccine. To accommodate this, Garrison Petawawa offers numerous Walk-in Flu-Clinics to members who choose to be immunized.

Walk-in Flu Clinics are open every Wednesday from 0800 - 1100hrs, from 28 Oct until the end of March 2021. Please note, there will be no Clinics on 23 & 30 December and 06 January 2021. Clinics are held at the 2 Fd Amb Medical Clinic, Immunization Office, Bldg N-109, Rm 1090.

Walk-in Flu Clinics are for military personnel only. Civilian employees of DND, civilian family members can attend flu clinics offered through the Renfrew County & District Health Unit (call 613-735-8666 or 1-800-267-1097 for details). Many pharmacies also offer vaccination for civilians – contact individual pharmacies for more information.

For more information on influenza and the influenza vaccine, visit the Government of Canada’s Public Health website at: www.canada.ca.