Flu Shots Are Now Available in New Brunswick

The seasonal flu vaccine is now available in New Brunswick, and in light of the severity of the illness last year, officials say it's best to get a flu shot as soon as possible.

Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jennifer Russell is urging all New Brunswickers to protect themselves and be immunized.

The Department of Health provides influenza vaccine free of charge for individuals at high risk, including these groups:

• Adults and children with chronic health conditions
• Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities
• People older than 65
• Healthy children six months to 18 years old
• Pregnant women
• Aboriginal people
• Health-care workers and others who might transmit influenza to those at high risk

All healthy persons aged 19 to 64 years are also encouraged to receive the flu vaccine, except those individuals who have shown an adverse reaction to the vaccine in the past.

Last season, there were 269 influenza-related hospitalizations reported in New Brunswick with 53 of those patients admitted to intensive care units. Fifteen people died due to illness associated with influenza.

To see if you're eligible for a free flu vaccine, go to the Department of Health's website.