It is recommended that those at highest risk of serious illness from influenza receive the vaccine. High risk groups include people over the age of 65; adults or children with chronic lung or heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or other chronic illness; residents of chronic care and long-term care facilities; pregnant women; and healthy children between the ages of six months and 24 months.

“About 42,000 doses of the vaccine were distributed on PEI last year, and we’re expecting to send out the same amount this year. We’re hoping that more Islanders will take advantage of the vaccine,” said Dr. Lamont Sweet, Deputy Chief Health Officer. “Health care workers, childcare workers, and any other professionals who may be at risk for transmitting the virus to people in the high risk category, are also encouraged to receive the vaccine.”

Family health clinics across the province will provide the vaccine by appointment to those without a family physician. Announcements will be made in the near future regarding dates and times of clinics, the public is advised to watch the newspapers for further information.

The Public Health Agency of Canada states that about 10 - 25 percent of Canadians may get influenza each year, with about 4,000 - 8,000 deaths occurring due to influenza related illness and complications. Because the strains vary each year it is necessary to be immunized each fall, before the start of the new influenza season with the current year’s vaccine. This year the vaccine will provide immunity against A/ Brisbane and B/ Florida strains of influenza.