It鈥檚 that time of year again, where the sniffles of co-workers can be heard throughout the office, while others stay home nestled in their beds with sweaty foreheads.

Flu season has arrived in the Okanagan, and 琉璃神社 MLA Steven Thomson along with Lakeside Medicine Centre are encouraging those who over the age of 65 to come in for a free shot.

Owner of the clinic Chris Waller said the pharmacy will give out around 9,000 shots this season.

鈥淟ast year, pharmacists gave residents of BC. 630,000 vaccinations and I expect us to exceed that this year,鈥� Waller said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 the accessibility of us鈥� now they can drop it and get it done while you鈥檙e filling a perception.鈥�

鈥淚t鈥檚 sort of like advanced voting, you don鈥檛 have to wait for one big day to do it,鈥� Thomson said. 鈥淭his is the season to do it, and having it easily available鈥�. we鈥檙e encouraging everyone to get out there and get one for the upcoming season.

The flu shot introduces the patient to viruses that may be coming through the Okanagan Valley, so they are able to build up a resistance, Waller said.

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鈥淎s you age, your immune system isn鈥檛 able to cope with stresses, infections and viruses, in particular seniors and those with health issues.

Thomson said he鈥檚 had them regularly since they鈥檝e been available since 2009.

Patients receive a free vaccination is available for those over the age of 65, adults and children with long-term health problems, children over the age of five, all First Nations and people who work with people who are at a high risk.

A flu mist is available for free for children, which is inserted in the nose, Waller said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a different form that we鈥檙e giving.鈥�

Last year, the pharmacy about 3,000 flu shots were administered in 琉璃神社.

To find out where you can get vaccinated visit and for more information.

carli.berry@kelownacapnews.com
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