The flu vaccination builds the body’s immune system, preparing it to stay strong and ready to fight the flu virus. This is especially important for people who are at high risk of flu-related complications or hospitalization, including:
- those with chronic medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, heart disease, asthma)
- adults over the age of 65 years
- healthy children between 6 and 24 months
- pregnant women
- aboriginal people.
In addition to these high-risk groups, infectious disease experts are emphasizing that adult caregivers of high risk individuals be immunized against the flu. Due to their close contact with those at most at risk of illness, getting the flu shot is a simple act but one that has a big impact on a loved ones’ or clients’ health.
The following individuals have agreed to help us promote the importance of an annual flu shot - they are "Faces of the Flu Shot." Are you ?
Name: Donna Tomiak
Age: 57
Hobbies: Donna enjoys playing golf, teaching piano and volunteering with a school choir at a local school. She is looking forward to meeting grandchild number 8 in November.
Why Donna gets a flu shot: "Getting the flu shot will boost my immune system so I can fight the flu. I don't want to pass it on to my grandchildren."
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Name: Manuel Joaquim
Age: Accountant
Hobbies: Manuel enjoys golfing, curling, and is a fan of NFL football.
Why Manuel gets a flu shot: "When I get the flu shot, I know I'm doing my part to protect my father from the flu. It is a simple way to help prevent a serious illness."
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Name: Megan Lipinski (and son Dayton)
Age: 31
Hobbies: Megan and her family enjoy being active outdoors in their free time - camping and fishing
Why Megan gets a flu shot: "Dayton isn't old enough to get the flu shot this year. That's why my husband and I will be sure to get it. We don't want to risk spreading the virus to our baby. "
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Name: Megan Tiernan
Hobbies: Meghan enjoys hiking, caring for her dogs and cats, crafts and cooking.
Why Megan gets a flu shot: "My baby is my number one priority. I want to make sure that we both stay healthy and avoid getting the flu this year. The flu shot is something important I can do for her."
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Name: Patrick Barker
Occupation: Registered Nurse
Why Patrick gets a flu shot: "The people I take care of are at a high risk for serious illness from the flu. So, I protect them and myself with a flu shot. I don't want anyone to get sick."
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