Public Health Community Flu Clinics – Face the flu. Get your shot.

Hamilton, ON – October 24, 2011 – Hamilton Public Health Services is pleased to offer community flu clinics from November 1 to 30, 2011. The schedule offers Hamilton residents twenty locations across the city with a variety of locations, days and times. For details about Public Health community clinics, · visit www.hamilton.ca/flu · call 905-546-CITY (2489)

The flu is a serious illness caused by the influenza virus. It causes severe chest discomfort, a high fever, and often severe aches, pains and weakness. Most people can recover at home in 2 to 7 days. However, some people become very sick and need hospital care. “Thousands of Canadians die each year from flu-related complications. The flu vaccine is a safe and successful way to prevent illness and death,” says Fiona Newton-Brown, Manager of the Vaccine Preventable Disease program.

Everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu shot every year. There are many types of flu in the world. Each year, the flu shot protects people from the most common types. You can protect yourself and people around you by getting a flu shot. Ontarians can get a flu shot for free from their doctor or a community flu clinic.

So face the flu and get your shot . . . for yourself, your loved ones, your friends, your family members or your co-workers. Who do you get your shot for? Everybody has a story. Tell your story by going to www.hamilton.ca/flu and visiting our Facebook page.