This month Halton Region launched the 2013/2014 influenza vaccine. I got to be one of the first to experience the new 2013 flu shot – one of the perks of being a nurse who may come into contact with vulnerable clients. Here is my quirky “review” 😉

Sight: Looks pretty much like any other vaccine in a syringe. Clear. Boring.

Smell: Again, boring. Unless you count the alcohol swab smell. That’s a bit strong at first sniff but fades away fast. Not entirely unpleasant.

Receiving my flu shot!

Feel: There’s that build up as the nurse approaches you with the needle, but then something of a let-down when it’s only a little pinch. Frankly, the climax is a bit disappointing.

After-effects: I walked to the post-vaccine waiting area feeling utterly unchanged, read through a magazine (which was more entertaining than the shot itself) and then went on with my day. That night and the next day I had some soreness in my upper-arm but honestly not much to speak of when you compare to actually having the flu.  Spoiler alert: I did feel that lovely, warm feeling you get when you know you’ve helped someone else.

I’d say this flu shot is absolutely worth getting for anyone who has someone in their life who could get awfully sick (or even die) from the flu. Elderly grandparents? Young baby at home? Best friend going through cancer treatments? This shot is for you. Don’t know anyone? That’s okay, just ask the next 5 people you see if there’s someone in their life and then you’ll have your reason for not getting them sick.

The 2013/2014 Influenza Vaccine… Coming very soon to a community centre or school near you! Check out the dates and times here. I will personally be vaccinating at one of the clinics – come say hi and I’ll be happy to sign my “autograph”… on your vaccination card! 😉

If you have any questions about the influenza vaccine, there are many ways to get in touch with us:

• Leave us a comment below
• Tweet with us @haltonparents
• Email us at haltonparents@halton.ca
• Call the HaltonParents line for parenting information or to speak directly to a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.