Flu season has arrived and the North Bay Parry Sound Health Unit says now is the time to get the flu shot.

Communicable Diseases Program Manager Louise Anello says their message is all about protecting yourself and loved ones from influenza.

“Basically we want to limit the spread, so the flu shot is your best protection, washing your hands frequently, covering your cough and if your ill, stay home,” she says.

According to the Health Unit website, last season there were 178 total cases of influenza in the district.

As of November 4th, there’s already six total cases this season.

Anello say that’s only a snapshot though, because testing is limited to the hospital-sector.

Public Health Nurse Jessica Taus with the Vaccine Preventable Disease Program says the vaccine is now widely available across the district.

“The flu shot is available free to anyone over six months of age and the flu shot is available, free of charge at the health unit, participating pharmacies and your doctor’s office,” she says.

Taus also says they’re holding a clinic at the Health Unit in North Bay on Saturday, November 18th from 10 am to 1 pm.

For more information on Influenza visit myhealthunit.ca

Officials also encourage residents to follow the Health Unit on Facebook, and enter their Flu Season contest for a chance to win a $50 gift card to their local grocery store.

Filed under: Flu shots, North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit