Have you had your flu shot? Talk to your pharmacist!

VANCOUVER, Nov. 5, 2012 /CNW/ - With flu season upon us, British Columbians are encouraged to talk to their pharmacist about getting their flu shot.

Getting immunized is one of the best ways to protect yourself - and others around you - against the flu.  The flu shot is free for British Columbians in at-risk groups. Those who do not qualify can purchase their vaccination for a small fee.

More than 2,000 community pharmacists are able to provide flu shots this year, and are a convenient option for anyone wanting to get vaccinated. The BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) predicts more than 150,000 people will receive a flu shot from their pharmacist this flu season.

"We're encouraging everyone to talk to their pharmacist about their annual flu shot," said BCPhA Board Director David Pavan. "Community pharmacists are highly accessible members of the primary health care team and play an important role in immunizing British Columbians."

"Our goal is to have at least one pharmacist who can give flu shots and other injections in every pharmacy across the province," said Pavan. "We're well on our way, with more than 865 community pharmacies with at least one pharmacist authorized to inject - that's about 78 per cent of all pharmacies in BC."

To find a flu clinic close to you, visit Immunize BC's Flu Clinic Locator at www.health.gov.bc.ca/flu.

"When you're talking to your pharmacist about flu season, make sure to also ask about keeping up to date with your other immunizations," said Pavan. "Pharmacists have really stepped up to the plate to provide important vaccines to the public, including whooping cough, pneumococcal and HPV."

The BC Pharmacy Association is a not-for-profit, professional association representing more than 2,600 pharmacists and almost 800 pharmacies throughout British Columbia.

SOURCE: British Columbia Pharmacy Association

Elise Riedlinger
Manager, Communications
604.269.2866 / [email protected]