A message from FNHA Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Evan Adams, about the flu and the flu shot

Protect yourself and others, including babies and the elderly

Flu season (November-April) is coming soon, and, as the FNHA's Chief Medical Officer, I'd like to remind all Indigenous people in BC that the best way to protect yourself and others is by getting your flu shot! I get my flu shot every year and I encourage my loved ones to do so as well. Flu vaccines help our bodies do what they do naturally — build immunity to fight illness.

Please be aware that while the flu is unpleasant for most of us, it can severely affect at-risk individuals such as the elderly, babies, small children, pregnant women, and those with health challenges. So by getting our flu shots, we are playing an important part in preventing the flu from spreading to these groups.  

Flu shots are free in BC for all First Nations and Aboriginal people. To find a clinic location near you, visit https://immunizebc.ca/ or call 8-1-1.

Vaccines are safe for you and your children
The evidence clearly shows that vaccines are among the safest health interventions available. Serious side effects are extremely rare and the most common side effect is a mildly sore arm. Vaccines help our bodies do what they do naturally: build immunity to fight illness. They save more lives than any other health intervention.

Washing your hands frequently is important
Although the flu shot offers excellent protection, be sure to combine it with other infection-control practices, such as remaining home when sick and washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can also combine your flu shot with traditional healing and wellness practices for even better health outcomes.

Please do your part to protect your community!
Again, let's do what we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones, as well as the more at-risk groups like babies and the elderly, from the flu. Please go out and get your flu shot early. To learn more about the flu and the flu shot, visit our website.

For more information about preventing the flu, including wearing surgical masks in certain cases, click here.