The Centre Integré de Santé et des Services Sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) will be opening clinics for vaccination appointments in territories throughout the region.

According to CISSSO, the campaign is mainly focused on serving people at risk of experiencing complications after a viral infection from influenza.

Those include: people between six months and 74 years-old with chronic diseases, people 75 years and older, healthy pregnant women, people living under the same roof as those who are at risk as well as health care workers helping those at risk of complications.

Anyone who falls under those guidelines are admissible to be vaccinated free of charge.

According to doctor-consultant in infectious diseases with the CISSSO Dr. Carol McConnery, getting vaccinated, especially those with chronic diseases is critical.

“We really want to vaccinate those who can experience grave consequences if they’re infected by the influenza virus,” she said.

Among other things, chronic diseases include diabetes, heart diseases and cancer, McConnery said.

She added that the campaign is also aimed towards caregivers of sick people, in order to prevent them from transmitting the virus to those who are most at risk of complications.

“If they’re infected by the virus, they’re more likely to get pneumonia, end up hospitalized or even deceased,” she said.

She addressed the small percentage of the population who doesn’t believe getting vaccinated is the right thing to do.

She noted that, more often than not, anti-vaxxers or those with questions regarding the necessity of getting vaccinated end up changing their minds after consulting CISSSO professionals.

“When we answer their questions, often they’ll make the decision to get vaccinated or to get their kids vaccinated,” she said.

As far as children are concerned, McConnery noted that they should all be vaccinated.

“Vaccination is populational,” she said. “When we diminish our coverage, we’re taking the risk of a certain disease coming back.”

Lastly, McConnery pointed to the importance of properly conducting oneself when sick or vulnerable by consistently washing hands, sanitizing and coughing in the crease of the elbow.

To schedule a vaccination appointment or to know more about the campaign, folks can either contact the CISSS de l’Outaouais by phone at 1-844-351-6277 or by entering the following link Clicsante.ca

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