Nova Scotians are being encouraged to get their flu shot before the winter season sets in.
Nova Scotia Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine showed his support for the annual campaign by getting a flu shot on Tuesday.
"Vaccination is the single most important way to prevent the flu, which can be a very serious illness," said Glavine in a statement. "It's free, safe and effective, and we encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine, but especially people at high risk for complications such as pregnant women."
Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Frank Atherton said the flu vaccine will protect both a pregnant women and her baby, before and after birth.
"This year, we want to remind pregnant women to get vaccinated. It is safe and effective at any stage of pregnancy…” said Atherton, who also got his flu shot Tuesday.
“Since the earliest a baby can be immunized is at six months, an expectant mother's flu shot is the best way her newborn can be protected."
Other high-risk groups, such as seniors, children under the age of five, people with chronic conditions and those who live with or care for people in high-risk groups, are especially encouraged to get the flu shot.
The flu vaccine is available free-of-charge in most pharmacies and doctors’ offices across Nova Scotia. Some workplaces and Public Health offices offer flu clinics.
The province has brought in 470,000 doses of the vaccine this year.
Last year, 42 per cent of Nova Scotians got a flu shot.
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