By Spencer Sterritt

Number of people getting flu vaccinations increasing in Nanaimo

Nov 2, 2018 | 2:10 PM

NANAIMO — With the influenza season approaching, Island Health says now is the time to become vaccinated instead of waiting until it’s too late.

Approximately 260,000 does of the vaccine are ready to go for Vancouver Island residents, available at pharmacies and public health clinics.

Medical health officer Dr. Paul Hasselback told NanaimoNewsNOW people seem to be getting the message about getting vaccinated.

“The great news is that somewhere between 30 and 40 per cent of the population do get the vaccine. That continues to increase each year.”

Hasselback said 2018 is anticipated to be a predictable year for the flu, which is still the most fatal disease in the world and is a contributing factor in many deaths.

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There don’t appear to be any new flu strains causing sickness this year, which makes it easier for health care officials to properly vaccinate and treat patients.

“Last year and the year before we had heavier influenza seasons. Because we’re not seeing anything new, perhaps we won’t see such a heavy season,” Hasselback said. “But it’s tough to make that prediction.”

Once the flu does arrive on Vancouver Island, often seen later in the year, Hasselback said it only takes weeks for the virus to race across the island.

“That’s often not enough time for the vaccine to take effect, (so) getting the vaccine earlier is the best protection for everyone.”

Those 65 and older, as well as their caregivers, along with people suffering from chronic health conditions and children ages five-months-old to five-years-old receive the flu shot for free.

Hasselback said he hopes their supply of the influenza vaccine is nearly depleted by the end of November

— with files from Ian Holmes

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit