A message from the First Nations Health Authority’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Evan Adams
Flu season will soon be upon us, and I want to encourage every First Nations person in BC to be prepared and informed – and especially, to get your flu shot. As a physician, I am only too aware of how dangerous the common flu can be, especially in tight-knit communities. Influenza causes more deaths among vaccine-preventable diseases than all others combined, especially among the elderly. In Canada, there are approximately 3,500 deaths from the flu and its complications every year.
So, getting your flu shot is not only about protecting yourself from a serious case of the flu; it’s about protecting your loved ones, including our Elders and infants, who are especially vulnerable to the influenza virus.
The flu shot is FREE for BC First Nations people, including at community pharmacies and physicians’ offices (you can find one by visiting www.immunizebc.ca or by calling 8-1-1). It is a safe and effective preventative practice that can be combined with traditional healing and wellness practices such as using traditional herbal or plant medicines. In addition, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and stay at home when sick.
For those of you who dread shots and are not sure of their benefits, I have some good news: this year’s flu vaccine is expected to be considerably more effective than last year’s. To learn more about the flu and the flu shot, please visit our website.
Be healthy and well,
Dr. Evan Adams
Chief Medical Officer
First Nations Health Authority