Halton has enough H1N1 vaccine for everyone

Halton Region wants to assure residents that there is enough vaccine available to provide H1N1 immunization to anyone who wants it. The Halton Region Health Department and other health units across the country are implementing the largest vaccination program in Canada’s history. Almost 4000 people in Halton were given the H1N1 flu immunization at clinics for high priority groups in Oakville and Acton yesterday.

“An immunization campaign of this size has never occurred before in Canada and our staff are working diligently to ensure all of those who attend our H1N1 immunization clinics in Halton are immunized,” said Dr. Bob Nosal, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health.

Halton Region continues to offer H1N1 immunization to high priority groups at clinics in North Halton (Acton) and South Halton (Oakville) for this week, with clinics opening up in all municipalities next week for all people who want to receive H1N1 immunization. Halton residents can dial 311 or visit www.halton.ca to find out clinic times and locations for their municipality. Halton Region will be holding H1N1 immunization clinics from now through mid-December.

The response to clinics held in Acton and Oakville yesterday was very positive, resulting in long wait times. Extra nursing staff was added to the clinics in an effort to keep up with the demand. Still, those who are planning to attend a clinic should prepare for long lines. Bring snacks, toys/books for your children, etc. If you have a fever or do not feel well, please postpone your immunization to a later date.

“The response to the immunization clinics has been tremendous, and, in spite of long lines, most are demonstrating remarkable patience,” said Dr. Nosal. “I think people understand that most people are here to protect themselves and their children, and our staff are immunizing and getting people through the line up as quickly as we can safely do so.”

Visit our website for information on the clinics throughout the region, as well as important information about how to protect yourself against H1N1 and how to care for yourself or others if you have flu symptoms. Self-assessment and screening tools available on the website can help those who are ill determine if they need to see a doctor.

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