Time to Roll up Your Sleeves

Fall brings back to school, Thanksgiving, and Halloween. But it also brings cold and flu season.

It’s that time of year – time to protect yourself and others.

University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Nursing faculty discuss the importance of vaccinations this cold and flu season.

• In the fight against disease, prevention is key! Think of it like this: we usually don't wait until after a car accident to put on our seatbelts. Immunization is the same idea! It is important to stay up to date with boosters, such as the annual influenza (flu) and COVID vaccine, in order to prevent getting sick and spreading disease. When you decide to protect yourself from vaccine-preventable diseases, you are also deciding to protect your family, friends, and community. Protect the USask pack and get boosted today!
  Michelle Patterson, RN, BSN, MN
  USask College of Nursing Lecturer, Public Health Nurse
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• As a Family All-Ages Nurse Practitioner, I get the flu shot to protect myself, my loved ones, and my patients. A vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of the flu (influenza virus). Not only can it save lives (including your own), it reduces risk of flu complications, such as hospitalizations, severity of illness, and sick days - which means you can keep doing the things you want to be doing. It is a free and easy way to promote your own health this fall and winter.
  Janet Luimes, NP, MScN
  USask College of Nursing Nurse Practitioner Programs Academic Lead & Associate Professor
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• I’m a public health nurse, educator, and researcher. Vaccines are an essential part of maintaining our health and the health of our community.
  
  My family and I will be receiving our influenza and COVID-19 immunizations to protect our own health and the health of our community. Get immunized against Influenza and COVID-19! Immunization is a free, safe, and effective way to stay healthy, prevent illness, and protect those around us. Influenza and COVID-19 viruses can change, and some immunization protection fades over time. A “top up” of protection is needed to maintain health and prevent illness. Individuals whose immune systems don’t function as well, young children, and older adults are at risk of more serious illness and complications. Protecting ourselves is also protecting those around us.
  
  Since it’s that time of year for immunization, it may be an opportune time to make sure other vaccines are up to date. A tetanus booster is required every 10 years. Some medical conditions qualify individuals for additional vaccines. If travelling, make sure you have all the necessary protection to enjoy your trip. Staying up to date with immunizations is a part of health maintenance like eating well and being physically active.
  Dr. Charlene Thompson, RN, BSN, MPH, PhD
  USask College of Nursing Assistant Professor, Public Health Nurse

According to the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) website, the flu vaccine is available across Saskatchewan through SHA health clinics, at participating pharmacies, and at some physician and nurse practitioner offices starting October 10^th. For more information, visit www.4flu.ca.