Winter brings higher risk of flu, COVID-19, Health Department warns

With winter increasing the chance of contracting influenza and COVID-19, the Department of Health says it’s important that people get their shots.

COVID-19 symptoms are similar to the common cold or flu, so those who are eligible should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine in addition to a flu vaccination, the department said in a public service announcement Monday.

Those vaccines are available to anybody aged six months and older, and the department said it is “safe and recommended” to receive both shots during the same medical appointment.

A separate flu vaccine is available to people aged 65 and older.

To book an appointment, people should contact a local health centre or public health unit. As well, Iqaluit Public Health offers walk-in flu and COVID-19 vaccinations every Friday from 9 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.

The department advised that anyone who feels sick should stay home, cough or sneeze into their sleeve, wash their hands often and avoid touching their face. It also advises people not to smoke indoors or around others and wear a mask in crowded spaces.

Currently, all Nunavut health facilities require people to wear masks.