Parents reluctant to deal with children who don’t want to get a needle should know that children can, and should, receive the influenza vaccine through a nasal spray, says Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison.
“The most effective way to avoid getting influenza is to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Morrison. “Flumist, a nasal spray influenza vaccine, is one type of vaccine available on PEI and is actually preferred for most children aged 2 - 17 years. It is a very effective method to immunize children and youth.”
Influenza (the flu) is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads from person to person primarily through coughing or sneezing. People can also become infected by simply touching objects or surfaces with the virus on them and then touching their mouth or nose.
"The flu can spread easily throughout a community, school or household,” said Dr. Morrison. “By ensuring everyone is immunized, including children, we can help stop the spread of the virus and protect those who may be at high risk of complications from the flu.
“Everyone over the age of 6 months should get the flu shot every year.”
Dr. Morrison urges Islanders to take these simple precautions to keep from getting the flu and keep from spreading it to others:
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use a hand sanitizer.
• Cough and sneeze into your sleeve or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue.
• Teach your children these practices as well.
• Get yourself and your family immunized.
Flumist is available at public health immunization clinics and at physician’s offices.
Public Health Nursing is continuing to offer flu shot clinics throughout the province for Islanders of all ages. A full list is available here: www.healthpei.ca/fluclinics. Flu shots are also available from your local pharmacist, family physician or nurse practitioner where there also may be an administration fee.