Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Grey Bruce Health Unit
Grey Bruce Health Unit Reports Suspended Flu Vaccines are Back in Use
Dr. Arlene King, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has advised doctors, nurses and pharmacists to begin administering two previously suspended vaccines – Fluad and Agriflu – as part of the province’s seasonal flu immunization campaign. Health Canada lifted the suspension on the two vaccines this morning after a review determined the vaccines remained safe to use.
“Our number one priority is and always will be the health and safety of Ontarians,” said Dr. King. “The flu shot remains the most effective and safe way to ensure you and your family avoid getting sick with the flu this season.”
The Health Canada suspension was purely precautionary and was issued late last week after similar actions in Europe. Health Canada looked at the results of its own testing, conducted a health risk assessment, and reviewed information from its European partners and data submitted by Novartis in making its decision. None of the information reviewed indicated a safety issue.
“I reassure all Ontarians that every one of our influenza vaccines is safe, and I encourage every Ontarian to take advantage of the free service,” stressed Dr. King.
The annual flu vaccine protects against the strains of the influenza virus that are expected to circulate that year. Ontarians are encouraged to get immunized in the fall. The earlier they get the shot, the earlier they are protected. Ontario’s publicly funded flu campaign started on October 22nd.
For information about the flu and Ontario’s flu campaign, visit http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/publichealth/flu/.
To receive your influenza vaccine, call your health care provider, local pharmacy or Public Health. For further information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or visit www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca. A schedule of flu clinics in Grey and Bruce counties is available to download.
Media Contact:
Sarah Ellis
Manager, Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext 1443
s.ellis@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
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