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Health Matters

By Virginia Lester,RN, MSN, ARNP

Theoretically, this is the time of the year that I should be encouraging all of you to have your flu immunization. But in fact as all of you know, there is yet again a vaccine shortage. However, this time the shortage is severe and unfortunately the Aydon Wellness Clinic did not receive any vaccine for general use. The public health department has published strict guidelines regarding who is eligible to receive the limited vaccine: All persons who are 65-years-old or older; children ages six – 23 months old; children and adults with a chronic health condition; women who will be pregnant during the flu season, typically from November through March; residents in nursing homes or long-term care facilities; and out of home caregivers and household contacts of children younger than six months.

The good news is that the Aydon Wellness Clinic will have state supplied vaccine available for the children six – 23 months old. We are also fortunate to be able to purchase a moderate supply of FluMist that can be administered to people between the ages of five and 49 years of age.

FluMist should not be administered to people who have a chronic illness, are currently receiving aspirin therapy, have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, are currently pregnant or have allergies to eggs. If you are interested, please do not hesitate to call or come to the clinic for this immunization or to clarify questions.

General ways to help prevent the flu are suggested. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, stay at home if possible and avoid contact with others until you are well. Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing to prevent spread of the virus. If you are a caregiver and become ill, practice good healthy techniques and in addition wear a mask to limit the spread of germs.

Wash, wash, wash your hands often to protect yourself and others. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if you have come in contact with a contaminated person or object. Practice good health habits of getting plenty of sleep, active exercise, eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of water.

Last, but not least, you may be able to receive the influenza vaccine in Canada. I have been told that it may be available in some pharmacies, clinics and at the Vancouver airport clinic.

There have been rumors that the federal government may find a way to purchase more vaccine. If this happens, we will notify residents of Point Roberts. I do hope this will be a mild flu season and that all of you remain healthy.

Don’t forget the mental health forum scheduled for November 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at the community center.