It’s the time of year for cooler temperatures, fall jackets, raking leaves and…bugs.

Flu bugs.

City of Hamilton Public Health’s seasonal influenza (flu) immunizations will be given at community clinics throughout this month, including two at Waterdown District High School (Nov. 3 and Nov. 17, from 3-7 p.m.). In addition, the vaccine is often offered at clinics organized in the workplace or at area pharmacies. An appointment to get the shot can also be arranged through your family physician.

Flu immunization is free and recommended for all those six months of age and older. A yearly influenza vaccination is needed to help provide protection against the different flu strains that circulate each season.

For the sceptics among us, those who argue that they don’t usually get the flu or that the vaccine isn’t effective, it’s worth keeping in mind the following information posted on the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care web site:

• Every year, different strains of flu circulate; by getting immunized, you decrease your chances of getting it;

• The vaccine does not contain any ingredients that would cause the flu and therefore the shot cannot give anybody the flu;

• Flu shots are recommended and safe for all pregnant women; those in their second or third trimester are particularly at risk for complications due to influenza, as are women who have delivered within the last six weeks;

• The seasonal flu shot is typically 70 to 90 per cent effective in preventing the flu in healthy children and adults, when the vaccine is a good match to the influenza types circulating that flu season.

Although most healthy people recover from the flu within a few days, it can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization and even death, especially in the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.

In addition to getting the vaccine, the following actions can also help protect against getting the flu:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 15 seconds

• Use alcohol-based hand rub

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

• Cough and sneeze into your sleeve

• Staying at home when you’re sick

•Keep common surfaces and items clean and disinfected.

For more information on the flu, including clinic dates and locations, visit http://www.hamilton.ca/HealthandSocialServices/PublicHealth/Influenza/ or call 905-546-CITY (2489).