Flu shots now available on campus

Getting the flu shot is your best defense against the flu, and the University Centre Pharmacy is now licensed to do flu shots on site. No appointment is necessary and only takes 20 minutes (pharmacist has to watch the patient to ensure no adverse reactions).

Influenza, (or the flu) is a common, highly-contagious respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs, and makes you feel ill. Symptoms usually last between seven and 10 days. The flu is not like a common cold; it is a serious infection especially in infants, the elderly and in people who have other medical conditions such as diabetes, anemia, cancer immune suppression, HIV or kidney disease.

The flu may also lead to complications, like pneumonia, and may worsen certain other conditions like asthma, congestive heart failure or diabetes. Your best defense against the flu is to get the annual flu vaccine. There are a number of ways to prevent the flu, including getting the flu shot, frequent hand-washing, avoiding touching your face with your hands, sanitizing household surfaces and children’s toys and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

For more information on the pharmacy’s flu clinic, contact the UC Pharmacy manager, Deb Giesbrecht, at ext. 9323 (debra.giesbrecht@umanitoba.ca).

You can also read more on the pharmacy website here.