Regular flu shots on offer in Nunavik this month

The vaccine against seasonal flu will be available in Nunavik starting on January 11, 2010.

The seasonal flu vaccine is being offered to residents roughly two months after three-quarters of the region was vaccinated against the H1N1 virus – the largest mass vaccination in its history.

In Quebec, the flu vaccine is being offered separately, while in Nunavut, it was administered at the same time as the H1N1 vaccine.

The vaccine is typically given every autumn.

The vaccine may be given to children as young as six months old.

(In Nunavut, the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines are still available at health centres for those who missed last fall’s vaccination campaign.)

Nunavik health authorities recommend the vaccine for children under two years, people aged 60 and over, and anyone suffering from chronic illnesses like heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes, cancer or asthma.

Children under 9 years of age who have not previously been vaccinated against influenza receive 2 doses of the vaccine, one month apart.

For additional information residents can contact their local nursing station:

Akulivik: 819-496-9090
Aupaluk: 819-491-9090
Inukjuak: 819-254-9090
Ivujivik: 819-922-9090
Kangiqsualujjuaq: 819-337-9090
Kangiqsujuaq: 819-338-9090
Kangirsuk: 819-935-9090
Kuujjuaq: 819-964-2905
Kuujjuaraapik: 819-929-9090
Puvirnituq: 819-988-2957
Quaqtaq: 819-492-9090
Salluit: 819-255-9090
Tasiujaq: 819-633-9090
Umiujaq: 819-331-9090