Editor:
Re: FHA no longer holding free flu shot clinic at McKee, letter to the editor, Oct. 29
I would like the opportunity to respond to Pearl MacPherson's concerns about the absence of a flu shot clinic at the McKee Seniors' Recreation Centre in Ladner.
I appreciate what MacPherson has to say about the services we provide. It gives us an opportunity to engage with and respond to those we serve in a meaningful way. Helping seniors get their flu shot is important to us.
Three years ago, pharmacies began providing the flu shot to anyone over the age of five. People picking up prescriptions or other personal items found this to be a very convenient option as the shot remained free at pharmacies for seniors, pregnant women, aboriginal people and people living with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes.
As a result of this change, we noticed that fewer people were attending the public flu shot clinics we were hosting in communities across our region. At the same time, we noticed a gap in the service for families with children between the ages of six months and five years (as pharmacists cannot vaccinate children under five years of age) and people who would not, or could not, go to a pharmacy or doctor's office, such as those who are homeless.
This is why we decided to refocus our efforts and resources to help these groups of people get protected.
Seniors in Delta can receive their flu shot through their local pharmacy, doctor's office and, on Nov. 17, at the McKee Seniors' Recreation Centre, which has organized a flu clinic on that day.
We appreciate the feedback from people in our communities, and we are continually monitoring what is needed so we can be responsive to demands throughout the flu season.
Should anyone have questions about the flu, or where to get a flu shot, please visit www.fraserhealth. ca/flushot or call the South Delta Public Health Unit at 604-952-3550 or the North Delta Public Health Unit at 604-507-5400.
Michelle Murti
Medical Health Officer Fraser Health
