Chief Health Officer Dr. Lamont Sweet advised that flu vaccine reduces the occurrence of serious complications from the flu, and is the most important measure a person can take to reduce the impact of the flu. "The Department of Health and Social Services, the Medical Society of PEI, and the PEI Lung Association support Health Canada's recommendation that people at high risk of influenza should receive the flu vaccine, including children and adults with chronic heart and lung conditions, persons over 65 years of age, and those with conditions which decrease their immunity to viral illnesses," he said. "In addition, all persons who have contact with patients or residents of health facilities are encouraged to receive the flu vaccine. This includes all those providing care in long-term care facilities, hospitals, outpatient and emergency departments, medical offices and home care settings."

Individuals wishing to receive the flu vaccine should arrange an appointment with their family doctor.

People who do not have a regular family doctor in the Charlottetown area can attend a flu vaccine clinic Saturday, November 16th from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Parkdale Medical clinic. Appointments are not necessary. The charge for the vaccine is $15 at the clinic. Flu vaccine clinics will be provided for staff in all government health facilities.