The “Be a flu fighter" annual campaign at Holland Bloorview kicked off on October 10. Occupational health nurses Lily and Patricia are raising awareness about the benefits of getting vaccinated against the flu.
[pictured above: Lily and Patricia]
It’s that time of year again, flu season is coming! Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital launched its annual “Be a flu fighter” campaign on October 10, 2023! All staff, clients and families are encouraged to get vaccinated in order to protect themselves and everyone around them from the flu.
Holland Bloorview’s flu vaccine clinics are running from October 10 to November 17. The clinics are open for staff, students and volunteers to get vaccinated.
Recently, we talked with Patricia Bowler, senior manager of the occupational health and wellness (OHW) team, and Lily Yeung, occupational health nurse at Holland Bloorview about the benefits of getting the flu shot and why everyone should do their part to become a “flu fighter.”
Tell me about your role at Holland Bloorview, including how long you’ve been here and what attracted you to work here.
Patricia: I started working at Holland Bloorview in 2000 as an occupational health nurse – it was my first role of that type. Afterwards, I left Holland Bloorview and went to SickKids to eventually manage the occupational health department there. After growing in my role, I had the opportunity five years ago to return and support the OHW team at Holland Bloorview.
Lily: I’m an occupational health nurse, and this is actually my first day here at Holland Bloorview!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Patricia: I like taking on the challenges I face every day on the OHW team. Here at OHW we operate like a walk-in clinic, so every day at work, you never know what situations will come through your door.
Lily: The role of occupational health nurse is very multifaceted. You get to do a lot of different things. I was looking for something that allowed me to draw on all my experience in different areas. This role happens to be the one that really fits with my experience and interest. So here I am!
What’s one thing that people might find surprising about you?
Patricia: I worked at Holland Bloorview 17 years ago, left for some time and now I’ve returned!
Lily: I am fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, and I’m currently learning French and Spanish on Duolingo!
Why is it important to get a flu shot?
Patricia: Getting a flu shot gives you better protection against the flu. Getting a flu shot can also prevent potential strain on the health care system. With both COVID and influenza last year, there was a winter surge in illnesses, leading to a very high number of hospitalizations. We encourage getting the flu shot to reduce the likelihood of another surge this year. And by getting the flu shot, you’re not only protecting the people you work with, but you’re also protecting your families and children, and for those working in a clinical role, you’re protecting the clients and families you care for every day.
Lily: A flu shot can reduce the severity of illness if you were to get the flu. That leads to a better recovery process, allowing you to feel better and get back to your daily routine.
Is the flu shot safe for everyone?
Patricia: Yes, it is safe for everyone. If you have medical concerns, please consult with your physician first. But very rarely is there a situation where someone is not able to have the flu shot after consulting with their health care provider.
Where can one get a flu shot?
Patricia: At Holland Bloorview, we are giving flu shots to our staff, students and volunteers at our clinic from October 10 to November 17. For the general community, flu shots are available at Toronto Public Health flu clinics.
After getting a flu shot, how long before it takes effect?
Patricia: It takes about two weeks. Please keep this in mind if you plan to go to any events and you want to protect yourself from the flu. You need to plan ahead and give the vaccine enough time to take effect.
What are the symptoms of flu?
Lily: Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, congestion, runny nose, sore throat and body aches.
Are flu symptoms similar to COVID-19 symptoms?
Patricia: Yes, some of the symptoms are similar to COVID-19. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and are not sure whether it’s COVID-19 or the flu causing them, we recommend staying at home and only returning to work when symptoms are improving.
Why should one get a flu shot if they are already vaccinated for COVID-19?
Patricia: They are completely different vaccines for different illnesses. It is strongly recommended that you get both vaccines to protect yourself against the flu and COVID-19. It is also important to note that, according to the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), people six months and older may receive any of the influenza vaccines at the same time as, or at any time before or after, administration of other vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines.
If one cannot get a flu shot for medical reasons, how can they protect themselves and others?
Patricia: If you have any medical concerns about getting the flu shot, please consult with your physician. Also, you should exercise these best safety practices to protect yourself and others:
- Stay home if you feel ill
- Keep yourself away from people who are ill
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid touching your face
- Wear a mask if you’re in a clinical setting
What are some temporary symptoms one could experience after getting the flu shot?
Patricia: A bit of soreness and possibly a mild fever. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is due to your body’s reaction to having received the vaccine. We recommend taking Tylenol or Advil after getting your flu shot.
For more information on how you can get a flu shot in your community, please visit myvaccines.ca. Help keep everyone safe by becoming a flu fighter!
