Influenza, or more commonly called the flu, is a serious infectious disease that can spread fast through the coughs and sneezes of people who are carrying the influenza virus. Flu can hit anyone – it does not matter how fit, active or healthy you may be. For most it can be a miserable experience. For some, it can cause serious complications requiring hospitalization, and even resulting in death. Those at especially high risk include the very young and very old, those who are overweight (obese), those suffering with chronic diseases, those who are pregnant and those with weak immune systems.
The most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu is to get the flu shot each year in the fall. The flu shot is free of charge in the NWT to everyone six months of age and older.
The High-Dose Influenza vaccine product will be offered to those who are 65 years of age and older and who reside in a long-term care facility.
FluMist (nasal spray) is available for children aged 2-5 years.
For non-urgent health advice, you can contact 811 to speak to a registered nurse 27/4. If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911.
For more information on the flu, please click on the following links to the Canada.ca/Flu website: