Flu Express To Commence On October 14th

The Department of Health has advised the public that the flu vaccine has now arrived on-island.

A spokesperson said, “Commencing October 14th 2013, the Flu Vaccine will be available to you from the Department of Health at a cost of $10.00 per shot for adults and children. Persons over the age of 65 years will receive this vaccine free of charge.

“The Department of Health will be offering influenza immunization in the community as well as the “Flu Express.” The Flu Express will take place as per the attached schedule, beginning on October 15th.

“The Flu Express is a convenient “drive through” way for persons 10 years and older to receive the flu vaccine. The cost is $10.00 per shot for adults while seniors [65 and older] receive it for free. Members of the public are asked to dress comfortably to allow the Nurse easy access to the injection site in the upper arm and to have the correct amount of cash ready as credit/debit card facilities will not be available.

“Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection which spreads from person to person via infected droplets from coughs and sneeze. For most people it is not generally a serious condition but is often very unpleasant and temporarily debilitating. For some, however, flu can be quite dangerous, even life-threatening, because it may increase the risk of developing serious complications such as pneumonia or respiratory failure.

“Symptoms of flu develop two to four days after exposure and may remain mild. However, serious attacks may cause sudden onset of sore throat, and runny nose with high fever, headache, backache, muscle pains fatigue and general malaise.

“Most people recover after several days, requiring extra fluids, rest and ibuprophen or acetaminophen to control fever and body aches. [NOTE: Aspirin should not be given to children and teenagers with flu-like symptoms].

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Cheryl Peek-Ball said, “The influenza vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that protects against influenza. Influenza illness can be serious for very young children, seniors and persons with chronic health problems which is why it is important to prevent its occurrence. It is also important for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy and healthy adults who are in close contact with children and the elderly to be vaccinated to reduce time from work and to protect seniors, infants and children.

“With the increased uptake of the vaccine each year Bermuda has seen a decline in the incidence of influenza in the community.”

The chance of contacting flu and other upper respiratory infections can also be reduced by frequent and thorough hand washing, ‘covering’ coughs and sneezes and avoiding crowded places.

“Flu Express” Sites:

• St Georges: Pennos Wharf [Enter via Tiger Bay Gardens] – Tuesday, 15th October [10 am – 2 pm]
• Warwick: 70 Middle Road Warwick [Under the Rubber Tree] – Wednesday 16th October [10am – 2 pm]
• Sandys: St. James Church Hall Parking Lot [on Sandys Main Road] – Thursday 17th October [10am – 2 pm]
• Hamilton: Hamilton Health Centre, 67 Victoria Street [In the Car Park] – Saturday 19th& 26th of October [10 am – 2 pm]

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