Flu, you and what to do
Date: Oct. 15, 1999
Time: 2:45 pm
A coalition of national health care organizations that includes the CMA is encouraging Canadians to get a flu short this fall and avoid becoming part of the almost one-quarter of Canadians stricken with the influenza virus every year.
The Partners in Health National Influenza Immunization Campaign warns that while many Canadians simply consider the flu to be like a bad cold, people in high-risk groups should not underestimate the potential effects of catching it. "While most people recover fully, influenza may lead to more severe and life-threatening illnesses, such as pneumonia, resulting in hospitalization and even death," states a new brochure being distributed by the coalition.
The health groups warn that people in high-risk groups, including the elderly or those with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis, kidney disease, cancer or other serious medical problems, be immunized.
"Almost anyone who wants to improve their chances of having a flu-free winter can benefit from immunization with this year's influenza vaccine," quotes the brochure. "However some high-risk individuals face the possibility of serious or even fatal consequences."
The coalition cautions that since the flu season generally runs from October to April, Canadians should ask their doctor or other health care professional about immunization as soon as possible.
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