As flu season approaches, take note of some key tips to prevent the spread and keep others safe
As the weather gets colder and flu season approaches, it is important to take steps to protect
yourself and those around you. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. While many people recover without complications, the flu can cause serious illness, particularly for individuals at higher risk.
Getting your annual flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and help keep our campus community healthy.
How does the flu spread?
The flu spreads easily from person to person through infectious particles released when someone breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can also spread when someone touches a contaminated surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. People can spread the flu before they even notice symptoms, making prevention especially important in shared spaces. This includes classrooms, residences, and dining halls.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, influenza causes approximately 15,000 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths in Canada each year. Although anyone can become seriously ill, older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with certain health conditions are at greater risk of complications.
Why should you get vaccinated?
The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent influenza and its complications. Health Canada recommends annual flu vaccination for almost everyone aged six months and older. Getting vaccinated every year is important because flu viruses change over time, and protection from previous vaccinations decreases. The flu vaccine cannot give you influenza, and most people experience few side effects beyond temporary soreness in their arm.
For university students, vaccination is particularly important because of the amount of time spent in shared living and learning environments. Getting vaccinated can help reduce your risk of illness while also helping protect others in the Mt.A community.
In addition to vaccination, washing your hands regularly, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing a mask when appropriate can help reduce the spread of influenza.
On-Campus Flu Vaccination Clinic
Mt.A is partnering with Dr. S. LeBlanc and her team to offer an on-campus flu vaccination clinic for students, faculty, and staff on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. atTweedie Hall, which is located in the Wallace McCain Student Centre. Students, faculty, and staff can book their flu vaccination appointment online.
Before arriving, please bring your provincial health card and a completed, signed consent form. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm and plan to remain in the after-care area for 15 minutes following your vaccination.
Please note that COVID-19 vaccinations will not be available at this clinic. Both flu and
COVID-19 vaccinations are available at local pharmacies. For further details about the on-campus flu vaccination clinic, please visit What’s On MtA or the Mount Allison Wellness Centre’s Instagram page.
Help keep our campus healthy
Getting your flu shot is a simple way to protect yourself and support the health of our campus community. Whether you live in residence, attend classes, or work on campus, taking preventive measures can help reduce the spread of influenza throughout the fall and winter.