Get a flu shot, win a prize

To make sure more Nunavummiut receive free flu vaccinations, the Kitikmeot and Kivalliq regions are offering incentives for anyone who agrees to receive a flu shot.

In the Kivalliq, you’ll get a chance in a draw for a pair of airline tickets from Kivalliq Air, while in the Kitikmeot, the community with the highest number of immunizations will receive $500 towards a community feast.

The highest vaccination rate per population is in the Kitikmeot, with 34 per cent.

According to Nunavut’s health and social services department, even when free vaccinations are provided to all, the rate of vaccination is about 50 per cent.

“We would like to meet last year’s total of 34 per cent,” said health department spokesperson Nancy Campbell. “The more we can do the better it is for everyone, because the flu vaccine helps prevent you from getting the flu, and if you are unfortunate enough to get the flu, it reduces the severity of the symptoms you experience.”

Nunavut’s flu vaccination campaign started in mid-October and will run until the end of January. To date, 19 per cent have received flu vaccinations.

The campaign began on Oct. 18, and in Iqaluit, free flu shots are given at the public health clinic every Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.