Flu Season is Here. Get Protected at Grace Health Centre!
Expected read time: 5 minutes
Written by: Diana Neumann, BSc ; Reviewed by Dr Zachary Au, MD
It’s that time of the year again: flu season. The good news? Grace Health Centre (GHC) is now offering flu shots! Whether you’re stopping by for a regular appointment or just walking in, we’ve got you covered.
What is the flu?
The flu (short for Influenza) is a virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms tend to appear suddenly and can be more severe, often leaving you extremely fatigued. In Canada, flu season typically runs from October through May.
Common Symptoms:
Typical flu symptoms may include:
- Sore throat and runny nose
- Fever, chills, or sweats
- Cough and headache
- Muscle aches and tiredness
When to Seek Emergency Care:
Most people recover with rest and fluids, but in some cases can become serious. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Severe weakness or muscle pain
- Confusion or dizziness
- Dehydration
- Worsening of existing medical conditions
Why Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?
The flu shot continues to be the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications.
Benefits include:
- Reducing the risk of serious illness and hospitalization
- Protecting those vulnerable in your community
- Helping prevent the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed during respiratory illness season
Because flu viruses change from year to year, it is important to get a flu shot every year. Protection develops about 2 weeks after vaccination.
Additional Precautions:
In addition to vaccination, you can help prevent the spread of influenza by:
- Staying home when feeling unwell
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Wearing a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces
- Avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands
- Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces
- Improving ventilation by opening windows when possible
Who is Most at Risk?
Although anyone can get the flu, certain people and groups are at a higher risk of complications, including:
- Adults 65 or older
- Children under 6 years old
- Pregnant individuals (with added protection passed to the baby)
- People with chronic health conditions
- Individuals living in group settings
- Indigenous people
How to Get Your Flu Shot at GHC:
- Walk-Ins: Available Monday-Friday during regular clinic hours (administered by medical assistants)
- During appointments: If you have an appointment with your physician, simply request the flu shot
- Doctor-administered shots: If you prefer to receive your vaccine directly from your physician, please book a dedicated appointment
- Pharmacy vaccinations: If you receive your flu shot at a local pharmacy, kindly call our clinic so we can update your medical record
*Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Should you be struggling with any health challenges and would like to seek professional help, please talk to your family physician.
References:
- Canada, P. H. A. of. (2024). Government of Canada. Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/flu-influenza/prevention-risks.html
- Influenza (flu). Public Health Ontario. (2025). https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/Diseases-and-Conditions/Infectious-Diseases/Respiratory-Diseases/Influenza
- Gouvernement du Canada. (2025). Flu (influenza): Get your flu vaccine (flu shot). Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/flu-influenza/get-your-flu-shot.html
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2025). Influenza (flu). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719
