Public Advisory: Flu Shot Safety and Availability Not Impacted in Newfoundland and Labrador

The Department of Health and Community Services would like to assure the public that the seasonal influenza vaccination in Newfoundland and Labrador has not been impacted by Health Canada’s decision to suspend the distribution of Novartis flu shots.

This year the Provincial Government has been allocated the vaccine FluViral from GlaxoSmithKline Inc. which is not the manufacturer named by Health Canada.

The department continues to encourage residents to receive the seasonal influenza vaccination. Residents who are at high risk for complications from influenza will be provided the vaccine free of charge through the publicly funded influenza program distributed through the regional health authorities or family physicians.

It should be noted that some private immunization clinics may be using a vaccine from a different manufacturer than the one provided by the Provincial Government. Individuals should inquire with the private clinic if they have questions or concerns.

For further information on influenza management please visit www.gov.nl.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/infoforpros_edu.html    

- 30 -

Media contact:
Jennifer Tulk
Director of Communications
Department of Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 699-6524
JenniferTulk@gov.nl.ca 

2012 10 29             2:10 p.m.