A Message from Dr. Evan Adams, FNHA Chief Medical Officer
Flu season is fast approaching and I know that we all want to do what we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the flu. As a First Nations physician, I would like to remind all First Nations and Aboriginal people in BC that the best protection against the flu is the flu shot. I get my flu shot every year and I encourage my loved ones to do so as well. Flu vaccines help our bodies do what they do naturally — build immunity to fight illness.
Protect others from the flu
Because the flu is a routine illness that comes each winter, we might underestimate how severely it can affect at-risk individuals such as Elders, babies, small children, pregnant women and those with health challenges. We can each play an important part in preventing the spread of the flu.
Flu shots are free
Once again this year, flu shots are free in BC for all First Nations and Aboriginal people. To find a clinic location near you, visit
www.immunizebc.ca or call 8-1-1.
Vaccines are safe for you and your children
Please don’t be led astray by the myths circulated by non-physicians about vaccines. The evidence clearly shows that vaccines are among the safest health interventions available. Serious side effects are extremely rare and the most common side effect is a mildly sore arm.
Don’t forget to wash your hands
Although the flu shot offers excellent protection, be sure to combine it with other infection-control practices, such as hand washing, avoiding touching your face, and remaining home when sick. You can also combine your flu shot with traditional healing and wellness practices for even better health outcomes.
Do your part!
Again, let’s do what we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the flu. Please go out and get your flu shot early. To learn more about the flu and the flu shot, visit www.fnha.ca.
Be healthy and well,
Dr. Evan Adams
Vaccines Facts:
• Vaccines are safe for you and your children• Vaccines help our bodies do what they do naturally: build immunity to fight illness• Vaccines save more lives than any other health intervention• Vaccines are among the safest health interventions available and serious side effects are extremely rare.• The most common side effect of vaccination is a mildly sore arm.
