News Release                                                

                                                                                                                For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                December 10, 2008

Walk-in Flu Clinics Final Attendance

More than seven thousand people (7,444) received their flu shots at 15 walk-in community flu clinics held by Grey Bruce Health Unit this fall. That is an increase of 609 from 2007.

“Public Health is pleased to see an increase number of people taking advantage of the free flu vaccine to protect themselves, their family and the entire community.” says Dr. Hazel Lynn, Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health. “Recent studies have shown the benefits of the universal flu shot to prevent disease as well as to reduce the burden of influenza on the health-care system.”

Two hundred ninety people received their influenza vaccinations at the Hanover Heights Public School clinic Monday, December 8, 2008. That was the final walk-in clinic scheduled for this year.

While the walk-in clinics have ended, publicly funded influenza vaccines are still available, by appointment, at Public Health offices in Walkerton, Owen Sound and at the Plex in Port Elgin. For further information or to book an appointment, please call 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

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For more information:

Karen Sweiger

Manager, Vaccine Preventable Diseases

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1230