Annual flu vaccines and COVID-19 shots are now accessible for all Saskatchewan residents aged six months and above. During a recent event at Regina’s Eastview Community Centre, Saskatchewan’s chief medical officer and Indigenous health authority officials provided information on obtaining the voluntary vaccines and urged residents to get vaccinated. Dr. Ibrahim Khan, a regional medical health officer with Indigenous Services Canada, stressed the importance of protecting families and communities by receiving the flu vaccine. Dr. Saqib Shahab, Saskatchewan’s chief medical health officer, highlighted different risk levels across age groups and recommended specific groups, such as those over 50 with underlying health conditions, to get both the fall COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The vaccines are free and can be obtained at public health clinics, participating pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and nurse practitioners’ offices. The flu season in Canada typically spans from November to April, with rare but serious complications that can arise from the flu. A recent Canadian government survey revealed varying vaccination rates, with about 42% of adults and 73% of seniors aged 65 and above receiving the seasonal flu vaccine. Approximately 81% of the Canadian population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Tania Diener, a medical health officer, acknowledged vaccine hesitancy but encouraged individuals with concerns to seek guidance from public health professionals or healthcare providers. Residents can schedule appointments through the health authority’s online booking system or by calling 1-833-727-5829. Walk-in clinics are also available for vaccinations.
“Saskatchewan Residents Encouraged to Get Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines”
