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= “ Every year, thousands of British Columbians are hospitalized | from the influenza:

~ Free for those who need it most.

cae season is back. -

“Influenza isa serious and contagious illness.

"THE RISK OF
: SETTING THE FLU

-. Get a flu shot.

Virus (flu). While anyone can contract the flu, people over the. age Of 656 are at the:
greatest risk of developing life- “threatening complications,

A fiu shot is the best protection. ©

Flu shots are proven to be 70-90% effective at preventing infection in 1 healthy 7
_ adults. That's why people who may spread the virus to those most’ at risk from.
the complications of flu are urged to get their flu'shot every year, Because aver
__ if you're able to battle the flu virus on your own, those around you may. not be
$0 lucky.

“+ Wash your hands often,
/ especially during the

: - winter months when the _
ae flui is most prevalent.

: . keep your hands away
. from your nose, eyes, | :
: and mouth, .

Some people are considered “high risk” for contracting the flu or passing it onto: %
others. The Worid Health Organization recommends that anyone considered: high .

risk should be vaccinated, That's why the Government of British Columbia provides
free flu shots to health-care workers, seniors, adults, and children. with chronic
illnesses and their families.

: Myths about flu shots.

A flu shot will not give you the flu. The influenza vaccine does not contain live 7
viruses. Many people believe flu shots weaken their i immune system. This i is‘ also
untrue. The vaccine actually boosts your immune system and prepares it ‘te fight
the virus. For most people, side effects are minimal if any. See

Stop or minimize. °°.
smoking. It irritates the
ining of your nose, “es
sinuses, and lungs,
nae making you more °
- susceptible to the virus

. Keep your immune

Protect yourself and the people around you. as
system healthy by eating

Please get a flu shot this season, Not only will it protect you from getting sick, it will .
also prevent others from being exposed to the influenza virus. All of which means oS a balanced diet and
- fewer visits to the emergency room and/or hospital. In fact, influenza immunization ~~. getting plenty of exercise,
—. contributed to about 1700 fewer hospitalizations for pneumonia and influenza | in. BC” a8 wy OE Las
between 1999/2000 and 2000/2001. : Ts

“To arrange your flu shot, contact y your “doctor ¢ or public health t unit. For | more ‘information;
Call BC NurseLine at 1-866-215- -4700 (24/7) or visit www.gov.be.ca/healthplanning. ,

iv Fraser bs Anterior. Northern ‘: - Vancouver Coastal - Vancouver Island ©

alth Services I" Health “Health .| Health “Health - ee “Health ”