Roll up your sleeves: Free flu shot clinics starting Oct. 22 across N.L.

Regional health authorities will begin to host public flu shot clinics starting Oct. 22, including at community health offices.

The Department of Health and Community Services said the number of clinics will increase this year to help improve public access to the vaccine.

The vaccine protects against four strains of the influenza virus, includingH1N1andH3N2.

The department said 125,000 people received the flu shot last year through the province's publicly funded vaccination program.

Due to a decrease in demand, FluMist, an intranasal spray, will not be offered this year as part of the publicly funded influenza program.

"The department encourages everyone six months of age and older to get the flu shot, especially those at increased risk for complications from the flu," said a statement from Health and Community Services.

"This includes pregnant women, adults and children with chronic health conditions, and seniors. People are encouraged to get the flu shot in the fall or early winter to give their bodies time to build up immunity."

People getting shots shouldbring along theirMCPcards and wear short-sleeved shirts.

For more information on scheduled clinic locations, people can visit the website of their regional health authority or call 811.

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