Seasonal flu vaccine now available
The seasonal influenza vaccine will be available this week and next week at designated centres.
The Ministry of Health announced that the shots will be offered to those aged 12 and above at Flu Express locations around the island. The vaccines cost $20 per person but are free for seniors aged 65 and older.
A clinic at the Hamilton Health Centre on Saturday is reserved for seniors and vulnerable populations. Vulnerable groups include seniors and people with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease who are at increased risk of flu-related complications. These individuals should inform their doctor once vaccinated.
Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, recently received her annual flu shot and emphasised the importance of the preventive measure.
She said: “Getting the flu vaccine each year is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and others from seasonal influenza.
“It reduces the risk of severe illness and helps prevent the spread of the virus within our community.”
• For seniors aged 65 and older, and vulnerable groups:
October 25: Hamilton Health Centre, 10am to 2pm
• Individuals 12 years and older:
October 28: Boaz Island Community Field, Sandys 10am to 2pm
October 29: Penno’s Wharf, St George’s, 10am to 2pm
Members of the public are asked to complete the online consent form and payment to reduce wait times and minimise paperwork. The form is available at https://forms.gov.bm/Influenza-Vaccine-Consent.
A confirmation e-mail will be sent and must be shown upon arrival. Anyone who is unable to complete the form online can fill it in at the Flu Express location.
Flu vaccines are also available through healthcare providers.
Children aged 12 years and younger are encouraged to visit their healthcare provider for their flu shot.
The vaccines will be administered only to individuals who are in good health and who are without active infections.
Anyone with allergies to chicken or egg products, or any component of the vaccine, will not be vaccinated.
Additionally, vaccines will not be available to anyone who has previously had a reaction to the flu shot, anyone with a fever or who is unwell, and anyone who has experienced a seizure in the past 12 months.
Those receiving the vaccine should wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm.
Anyone wishing to pay in cash should bring the exact amount, as credit card facilities will not be available at Flu Express sites.
For more information, visit www.gov.bm/flu.
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