Flu vaccine will be free for all
Seasonal flu vaccine for the 2010 11 influenza season will be free for all Nova Scotians.
"Because of the potential for H1N1 to be one of the main influenza strains next winter, I feel it is important that Nova Scotians have easy access to
seasonal flu vaccine," said Maureen MacDonald, Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.
"We are making life better for Nova Scotians in every region by making an investment that will help keep families healthy during the upcoming flu season,"
she added.
This year’s flu vaccine program will cover anyone who wants to get immunized.
In previous years, the program was publicly-funded only for certain risk groups including people 65 and older; children six to 23 months old; pregnant women,
health-care workers; and first responders.
Dr. Robert Strang, chief public health officer for Nova Scotia, said the flu shot is a simple, safe and effective way to be protected against the influenza
virus.
"I encourage all Nova Scotians to receive the vaccine when it becomes available this fall," he said.
Nova Scotia's vaccination program usually begins in October. Influenza season in Nova Scotia typically runs from November through to April.
More detail on the flu season and the vaccine will be made available as soon as it is known.