Free and Easy Flu Shots for all Ontarians

What I learned yesterday was that you can get your free flu shot from any participating Pharmacist in Ontario. (See the press release here.) This is the second year that pharmacists can provide a free flu shot and now getting one is more convenient than it has ever been before. I was able to get my shot at Costco Pharmacy and it took only 30 minutes.  A few minutes in line to get the shot and I had to wait seated 15 minutes to ensure no adverse reaction.  Why I wrote this article is because I got the flu the last two years in a row and I did not get vaccinated.  Neither times were fun and I was out of commission for almost a week both times. Don't let it be you! 

Ontario Government Health Poster

The key facts per Ontario Ministry of Health is that the flu shot prevents the likeliness of having the flu by 60% to 80% in the following year.  Depending on the year and the strain the average chance of a Canadian having the flu ranges from 10% to 20%. This year's flu shot immunizes you against the 3 most common strains that affected Ontarians in the prior year. Flu strains are constantly evolving and annual immunizations are required. It takes two weeks after receiving the shot for the immunization to be effective. This point is why some people think that the flu shot causes illness or they confuse it with a common cold. In all likelihood you were already infected.  The earlier you get the shot the less likely you will have the Flu and transmit it to others.

How to get a flu shot:

All that you need is your OHIP card and to fill out a brief questionnaire.  The government has setup a website application to find the nearest location for you or you can make an appointment with your doctor or local health clinic. This years flu shot became available on Oct 24th.

Find the nearest locations to get a flu shot.

Or simply go to your local Shoppers Drug Mart or Rexall Pharmacies, who are offering flu shots without appointment, while quantities last and a pharmacist is on duty.  To learn more about the flu and the differences between the common cold, see this Ontario Ministry of Health website.  To learn more about biology of influenza see this article from Wikipedia.

Possible Side Effects:

The most likely side effect is a runny nose or a sore throat that can last a couple of days. Also since the shot is intra-muscular than discomfort in that muscle.  It is possible to have an allergic reaction because the flu shot is developed using chicken eggs.  

It has been 24 hours and other than some muscular discomfort in my left bicep where I received the shot I'm feeling fine.  I didn't cry either. 

Quick facts:

• 1/3 of Ontarians are estimated to have received the shot in 2012.
• 2013 Flu Shot became available on Oct 24th.
• 2013 will be the 14th year that the Ontario Government has provided flu shots to all Ontarians.
• Pharmacists are paid $7.50 per shot administered.
• Approximately 2,000 of 3,500 Ontario Pharmacies are offering it in 2013.  Up from 600 in 2012.
• Doctors are only allowed to administer the shot to children under 5 years old.
• It takes 1 to 2 days after being infected to usually show symptoms. 
• People are normally contagious 5 to 7 days after infection.  Small children can be contagious up to two weeks after infection.
• Approximately 60,000 hospital stays a year are caused by the Flu and its complications.
• On average Influenza kills 500 to 1,500 Canadians a year.

Disclaimer:  I'm a guy who writes a Blog and not a Doctor.  My medical training solely consists of watching all 8 seasons of House. If you have questions or concerns, raise them with a healthcare professional.   There are reasons not to get a flu shot including, allergic reactions (eggs) or that you are currently sick.