After already nearly doubling the number of ’flu vaccinations administered all last winter, the Northwestern Health Unit is looking to wrap up its universal influenza immunization program with a final public clinic here next Thursday (Jan. 15).
“What we’re calling it is a ‘last call’ clinic,” public health nurse Cindy McKinnon said yesterday.
She noted the health unit has been very busy keeping up with the demand for ’flu shots in the district, but added it has to draw the line somewhere if it’s to go out to more isolated communities and schools as initially planned.
“We’re recommending people make appointments but if they want, they can show up without one. They just might have to wait a while,” she added.
Call 274-9827 to make an appointment for the clinic, which will run from 9 a.m.-noon and again from 1-3:30 p.m. at the health unit’s office on Scott Street.
Those attending are reminded to wear a short-sleeved shirt and bring along your Ontario health card.
McKinnon said the health unit has been going through a lot of the vaccine, but hasn’t yet run into a problem getting more from its supplier.
The health unit initially was going to wrap up its ’flu shot clinics Dec. 4. But the high demand for vaccinations prompted it to extend that date to Dec. 9.
That was extended yet again, with more clinics being held at the health unit’s office up until Dec. 23.
As of Jan. 2, the health unit has distributed a total of 34,374 doses of the vaccine across the Kenora- Rainy River districts and itself administered a total of 12,844 shots (4,582 of these were given in Fort Frances, Emo, Rainy River, and Atikokan).
While the Jan. 15 clinic is being called a “last call” one, McKinnon noted the health unit will continue to accept appointments for ’flu shots every Wednesday during the winter.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
