2006 flu campaign begins

"The flu vaccine changes each year to protect against the changing strain of flu virus, so I urge Nova Scotians, especially those at high risk, to get a flu shot," said Dr. Jeff Scott, chief medical officer of health. "It is our best defence in protecting people, young and old, from the flu."

The Department of Health Promotion and Protection is providing free vaccine at doctors' offices and community clinics across the province for the following groups: -- people over age 65 -- people living with, or caring for, those over age 65 -- adults and children with chronic heart and lung problems

and other chronic diseases -- pregnant women with chronic conditions -- infants age six months to 23 months -- all health-care workers and students in health-care

educational programs -- police officers and firefighters. "When you get a flu shot, you protect not only your own health, but the health of the people around you," said Barry Barnet, Minister of Health Promotion and Protection. "If we increase the number of people who are immunized, particularly those in high-risk groups, we will keep people healthier, which is our ultimate goal."

Because health-care providers are often in frequent contact with those at risk of contracting the flu, it is important for them to get flu shots as well. "As front line health-care providers, it is important that physicians have a flu shot each year," said Dr. Rhonda Church, president of Doctors Nova Scotia. "It protects our patients from the possibility of catching the flu from us, and also protects us and keeps us healthy so we can provide quality care to our patients."

Flu tends to appear in Nova Scotia in December, and flu season can run until April, sending thousands of Nova Scotians to their doctor.

Many people mistake the flu for other respiratory or stomach illnesses. Flu symptoms usually include a sudden high fever, headache, general aches and pains, fatigue and weakness, a runny, stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat.

Proper hygiene such as hand-washing and covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing are also important in preventing the spread of influenza and many other infections.