Flu season is approaching and the local health unit encourages people to take advantage of the free vaccinations available throughout the area.
The first clinic of the season is scheduled for the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre Friday, Nov. 8 with another at the Parksville Community and Conference Centre the following Friday, Nov. 15. Both clinics run 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The drop-in clinics are free for eligible people including, among others, people age 65 and over, anyone with chronic health conditions, health care and emergency workers, nursing home residents and the household contacts and caregivers of any of these groups.
Children under 23 months are also eligible but need to make an appointment to do it at the Parksville Health Unit in Family Place.
People not eligible for the free vaccine at the clinics can contact their family doctor, local pharmacy, walk-in clinic or travel clinic.
For schedules and more information check www.viha.ca/flu, call HealthLink at 8-1-1 or the local health unit at 250-947-8222 for an appointment.