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North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
Flu Shot
Quick Links
Contact(s)
About the Flu Shot
Where can I get the flu shot? |
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You can get your flu shot at a doctor's office, pharmacy, community walk-in clinic, or our Health Unit office. |
Will the flu shot protect me against COVID-19? |
| No. However, getting the flu shot with help protect you and those around you from getting the flu. By getting your flu shot, not only are you reducing the chance of spreading infection, but you are also helping to reduce the burden on hospitals and the health care system during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
Do I need to get the flu shot every year? |
| Yes. Everyone who is 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year. |
What are the side effects of the flu shot? |
| The most common side effects are mild and can include soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Low-grade fever, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite and muscle aches may also occur. If they do, they usually begin 6 – 12 hours after getting your flu shot, and last one to two days. |
How long does it take for the flu shot to take effect? |
| It takes about two weeks to develop protection. |
Who can get the flu shot? |
| In Ontario, anyone aged 6 months and older is eligible to get the flu shot. |
How many doses of the flu vaccine do I need? |
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All individuals 9 years of age and older require one dose of the flu vaccine annually. Children six months to eight years old, who have not received the flu shot previously, require two doses at least four weeks apart. Children six months to eight years old who have had the flu shot in previous years, require one dose. |
Do I have to pay for my flu shot? |
| No, the flu shot is available free of charge to individuals who live, work or attend school in Ontario. |
More Information:
- About the Flu
- View our Influenza Updates page
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