The Influenza vaccine: what, where, how, and why

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A graphic of a syringe and needle with a “CAUTION” sticker over the tip of the needle and a pale blue background.
Okay, I think that needle might be a bit bigger than I’d like to get jabbed with… macrovector, irasutoya via canva manipulated by Annika Hadden

For everyone’s safety, maybe I’ll get jabbed…

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and direct contact. It can lead to severe health complications, and common symptoms for this include fever, cough, chills, muscle aches, headache, and a runny nose. 

The influenza “season” typically ranges between late fall and early winter (November to April), and all across Canada experts are urging people to be proactive and take steps to help prevent the flu. According to Gerald Evans, an infectious disease specialist at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, “the dominant strain this year is expected to be influenza H3N2, with some H1N1, and influenza B circulating as well, though not in excessive amounts.” Based on patterns observed in the southern hemisphere, Evans said this year’s flu season will be “average,” with a potential peak in flu cases around late December and January. 

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends annual vaccination for individuals six months and older unless receiving a vaccine could be harmful, like for “[p]eople who have had an anaphylactic reaction to a specific influenza vaccine, or to any of the components of a specific influenza vaccine, with the exception of egg.” 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists those with a higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu and for whom vaccination is especially important. These people include but are not limited to, adults 65 and older, pregnant people and people whose pregnancies recently ended (within two weeks), children younger than two, those with chronic illnesses, compromised immune systems, and more. 

In addition to vaccines, other protective measures can help prevent illness. These include regular handwashing, staying home when sick, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.

The aftereffects of the vaccine are typically mild, such as soreness at the injection site or mild flu-like symptoms. In Regina, flu vaccines are widely available and free for residents aged six months and older. The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) provides various locations for people to access these vaccines. 

If you go for a vaccine, remember to bring your health card, give yourself at least fifteen minutes for the observation period after receiving it, and wear shorter-sleeved tops since the vaccine is given in the upper arm.

Locations to get your vaccine include pharmacies located in Regina like London Drugs and Pharmasave on University Park Drive. Various walk-in clinics in Regina are offering influenza vaccinations without the need for an appointment, and the Regina Central Library has influenza vaccines available for people. The Northgate Mall and South Public Health at 3621 Pasqua St. are also on the list of places where people can go get their vaccines to help prevent themselves from catching the flu. 

The University of Regina runs on-campus flu shot clinics for students, staff, faculty, and immediate family members. Their latest walk-in clinic was on Oct 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Research and Innovation Centre Atrium for the influenza and COVID-19 Pfizer Comirnaty® (Pfizer) vaccine. The University’s website states that if there are leftover doses of the Pfizer vaccine or if more doses become available, another on-campus vaccination clinic will be offered. 

Additionally, the SHA offers detailed information about respiratory illness and vaccination services throughout the region. Utilizing these resources can help protect oneself during this peak flu season, especially for university students stressing about midterm exams and upcoming assignments.

Whether one is a student at the University of Regina or a community member, getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect oneself and the community. Regina has many convenient locations offering flu shots this season, so check places like your closest pharmacy, walk-in clinic, and the university for clinic times and dates. 

Beyond personal health and staying informed, taking preventive measures and prioritizing one’s health this season is crucial. The earlier one gets vaccinated, the better the chances of avoiding severe illness and helping others do the same. 

References

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