With COVID-19 still on the loose, Northern Health says it's now important than ever to get a shot to protect against the spread of the common flu.
And the chance to get one will come as soon as the first week of November when they will be available at most Northern Health flu clinics, pharmacies and doctors offices throughout the region.
Not only will it keep you from contracting the bug but ease the load on the medical system.
"Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization and death," Northern Health said in a statement issued Tuesday.
"If influenza spreads rapidly in communities at the same time as COVID-19 - it can overwhelm the healthcare system and put our loved ones at risk. The best protection is to get the flu shot this fall...and stay home if you are sick."
To find a flu clinic or provider nearest you, visit ImmunizeBC's website, or call 811.
You're also urged to make an appointment to reduce line-ups and maintain safe physical distancing as the COVID-19 pandemic maintains its grip.
Downloading the NH Check In app is also helpful. Found at https://www.northernhealth.ca/services/digital-health/nhcheckin, it lets you wait and check in online from your car, home , or office, lets you notify staff once you've arrived, without having to come inside the building and reduces the amount of time you spend in waiting rooms.
The shots are free for children, seniors, pregnant people, Indigenous people, those with underlying medical or chronic health conditions and those who work with or come in close contact with higher-risk groups.
For more information about the flu visit northernhealth.ca.
