Township looks to link H1N1 clinic users with drivers
Posted Nov 6, 2009 By John Nelson
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Tweet ThisEMC News North Dundas Township has announced it will arrange transportation to local H1N1 immunization clinics, for those who require the service.
Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) immunization clinics began Oct. 30 and continue Nov. 6, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 27. Clinics are being held at North Dundas District High School. Weekday clinics run from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. while the Saturday, Nov. 14 clinic goes from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Anyone who is willing to provide transportation to the clinics is asked to offer their services to the township as well.
During township council's regular meeting of Oct. 27, Deputy Mayor Estella Warren announced that the township was ready to help residents who require transportation to the clinics.
The high school is located on Hwy. 43, outside of developed areas.
Ms. Warren urged anyone requiring transportation to call the township offices Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to arrange assistance. She likened the H1N1, also known as swine flu, to the 1998 ice storm, pointing out neighbour helped neighbour during that crisis.
The number to call if you need, or can offer, a ride is 613-774-2105.
The remaining clinics are intended for the general population. Earlier EOHU clinics focused on providing the vaccine to people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, healthy children six months to five years of age, health care workers and persons living with those in the high-risk categories.
The H1N1 vaccine is available only through the clinics.
"The H1N1 vaccine is both safe and effective. We encourage everyone to get it," said Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, EOHU medical officer of health on the health unit's website. "Getting immunized is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting ill with H1N1."
In addition to the North Dundas District High School clinic, the health unit is also providing the vaccine in Hawkesbury, Cornwall, Rockland, Alexandria and Casselman locations.
The two main symptoms of H1N1 flu are a fever of more than 38 degrees Celsius and a cough. Other symptoms may include sore throat, fatigue and weakness, aching muscles and/or joints, headache and nasal congestion. Children may also suffer from vomiting or diarrhea.
Watch the health unit website at www.eohu.ca for more updates as they become available.
