Posted: 24 October 2004 at 1:05pm | IP Logged

Free flu shots are being made widely available to all Ontarians again this year.
We have included a website link to the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit 
showing all the FREE FLU CLINICS available throughout the Essex County area.

The following is a press release issued by the Ontario Ministry of Health.

TORONTO, Oct. 19 /CNW/ - Free flu shots are being made widely available
to all Ontarians again this year, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George
Smitherman said today.

    "During flu season, October to April, we are exposed to the flu virus
wherever we come into contact with other people; in malls, schools, at work
and on the street," said Smitherman at the provincial launch of the flu shot
campaign. "Rolling up your sleeve and getting a flu shot is the easiest, most
effective way of protecting yourself. It's also the socially responsible thing
to do since you'll be helping to prevent the spread of the flu to others."

    Smitherman said it's more convenient than ever to get a flu shot, and
it's free to all Ontarians. In addition to doctors' offices and public health
units, flu shots are also available this year at local pharmacies and  
employer-sponsored clinics across the province.

    The flu shot campaign will be advertised through television, radio and
newspapers. To find a convenient flu clinic location, people can call         
1-866-FLU-N-YOU or visit www.health.gov.on.ca. More information can also be
found on http://www.HealthyOntario.com.

    "Last year's flu shot won't protect you this year, so getting immunized
each year should be a part of everyone's regular winter routine," said Dr.
Sheela Basrur, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health. "Influenza is
serious and contagious but it is also preventable. The vaccines are safe and
getting a flu shot now can mean a healthier and happier winter for you and
your family."

    Ontario's Universal Flu Program -- the only one of its kind in North
America -- is in its fifth year of offering free flu shots to all residents
six months of age or older. Parents are especially encouraged to vaccinate
their children, and to record it on their immunization cards.

For more information about getting a flu shot, call 1-866-FLU-N YOU     
(1-866-358-6968) (TTY 1-800-387-5559).