(Photo: Dr. David Poon getting vaccinated. Submitted by Dr. David Poon)
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is reminding northerners to stay up to date with their COVID-19 and flu vaccinations as we enter the flu season.
Dr. David Poon with the SHA in la Ronge stated that it’s important to get flu and COVID-19 vaccinations every year to protect elderly and immune compromised individuals.
“If we get everyone vaccinated, then we have less spread of flu, and if we have less spread of flu or COVID, then the people who are really vulnerable or who get really sick don’t get sick, so that would be our grandparents, our elderly loved ones, those of us who are immune compromised, so like diabetes or have other health issues, and really young kids,” he explained.
The SHA also reminds people that COVID-19 and flu viruses change frequently, and it’s important to get the most recent vaccines to properly prevent yourself from getting sick.
“If you don’t have the latest shot, what can happen is the flu, which is a little bit different every year and can still make you sick; likewise with COVID. It’s no longer ‘how many shots do you have, but did you get this year’s shot?’ “Said Poon.
All Saskatchewan residents ages six months and older are now able to get free flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Influenza and COVID-19 clinics can be found across the province; people can also receive the vaccinations in some physician and nurse practitioner offices and at participating pharmacies.
People with questions or concerns regarding flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can contact the SHA or reach out to Dr. David Poon directly at david.poon@saskhealthauthority.ca.