Appointment bookings open in Sask. for influenza, COVID-19 vaccines

Bookings are now open across the province for seasonal influenza and COVID-19 immunization clinics.

Residents can make their appointments, online and over the phone, through walk-in clinic listings or through the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) patient booking system. Appointments can be made for individuals and for groups of up to six people.

Immunization clinics are scheduled to open the week of Oct. 15.

The SHA said residents can get both shots at the same time, noting in a Tuesday news release that "it is safe to receive both vaccinations at the same visit." 

"Getting immunized is crucial in the fight against respiratory illness and will work to keep not only you but your loved ones healthy," SHA medical health officer Dr. Tania Diener said in the news release. 

"We encourage everyone to receive their vaccines as soon as possible." 

The SHA said individuals in high-risk groups should get the vaccines at their earliest availability. 

This includes people with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, children under five, and seniors and their caregivers. For Saskatchewan residents 65 years of age and older, a high-dose influenza vaccine is available. 

Influenza and COVID-19 immunizations are also available at participating local pharmacies and some physician and nurse practitioner offices.

Children who are under the age of five can only be immunized at an SHA public flu clinic, public health office or by a physician or nurse practitioner. 

The SHA recommends getting the vaccines that are available now as they include protection against the strains of influenza most likely circulating this fall and winter. 

For more information and to book an appointment, Saskatchewan residents can access the patient booking system at www.4flu.ca or call 1-833-727-5829 Monday to Friday.