The Chief Public Health Office is reminding Islanders that although influenza activity on Prince Edward Island is currently low and consistent with previous years, it’s still important to protect yourself from getting the flu.
There are now four lab-confirmed cases of influenza on Prince Edward Island. The number of cases is on par with previous years.
“This increase in cases confirms that influenza season has arrived on Prince Edward Island, just as it has in the rest of the country,” said Dr. Heather Morrison, Chief Public Health Officer. “The flu shot is the most effective way of reducing the impact of influenza, especially for those most at risk for complications.”
Like the rest of the country, the predominant strain on Prince Edward Island is pH1N1. The pH1N1 strain differs from our more typical seasonal influenza strains in that it appears to impact younger age groups in higher proportions.
Cases of H1N1 have been seen during flu season each year since 2009 and the H1N1 strain has been included in the vaccine since that time. This year’s seasonal influenza vaccine is protective against three strains of influenza – Influenza A (pH1N1), Influenza A (H3N2), and Influenza B.
The vaccination is free at the public clinics for seniors age 65 and over, children aged 6 - 59 months, pregnant women, and household contacts of pregnant women. Family physicians may also offer the vaccine.
Health PEI Public Health Nursing will be holding a walk-in clinic Monday, January 13 at the Jack Blanchard Family Centre in Charlottetown. The walk-in clinic will be held from 12 to 7 p.m.
In addition, Health PEI will continue to offer additional clinics next week in various locations across the Island. Islanders must call 1-855-354-4358 (4FLU) to make an appointment for one of these other clinics.
Typical symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, aches and pains, cough, and sore throat. Wash your hands often, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, and stay home if you are sick.
For more information on influenza or where to get the influenza vaccine, visit www.gov.pe.ca/flu.