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London, Ontario's Online News Source"If you're on...you're in!" |
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Immunization to test health unit's pandemic plan
When the Middlesex-London Health Unit launches this year's influenza immunization program next week, it will not only be protecting the community against the influenza virus, but it will also be testing some areas of its pandemic influenza plan. The immunization program launches Monday (Oct. 22), and some of the locations used for community vaccination clinics could be used as vaccination sites should a future pandemic arrive in the area. "We will be assessing these clinic sites as possible locations from which to distribute vaccine in the event of an influenza pandemic," says Mary Anne Simpson, manager of Vaccine Preventable Diseases at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. "Using them for our annual immunization program gives us an opportunity to test ourselves, our processes and the capacity of these sites in a much less stressful environment than we would see during an influenza pandemic," she explained. The health unit is offering residents the opportunity to get their flu shots at community clinic sites, chosen for their central locations, ease of access and suitability for larger immunization programs, such as those that would be required during a pandemic. The influenza vaccine is also available through family physicians, at workplace clinics and other community sites. In addition to the community clinics, The health unit will again be offering a drive-through flu clinic for individuals who have a mobility problem, or anyone who would find large crowds overwhelming. Those interested in attending the drive-through clinic should call 519-663-5317, ext. 2452, to make an appointment. Health officials said receiving the annual influenza vaccination, which is free, is the single most important method to prevent serious illness and death caused by influenza. Each year a news influenza vaccine is created based on recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), which determines which circulating strains are most likely to cause seasonal infections. For a complete schedule of Community Influenza Vaccination Clinics visit the health unit online (see link). WEB: Middlesex-London Health Unit Flu shot schedule |
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