Flu Shot

What is a Flu Shot?

A flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your family against the flu and prevent its spread. Flu season generally occurs during the fall, winter and early spring. A flu shot is administered by a London Drugs Certified Injection Pharmacist.

Everyone is at risk of getting the flu. The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends the flu shot for everyone over the age of 6 months, including those who are healthy, but people at high risk of complications from the flu are young children, adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women and those with a chronic health condition. You can refer here for more information.

It's important to note that flu viruses change each year, and experts create a new vaccine to protect you each flu season:

• the viruses in the flu shot are either killed or weakened and cannot give you the flu

• most people don’t have reactions to the flu shot; those who do may have soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site

• severe reactions to the vaccine are extremely rare

How the flu spreads

The flu spreads very easily from person to person. Even before you notice symptoms, you may spread the virus to others. If you have the virus, you can spread it by talking, sneezing, or coughing. These actions contain tiny droplets that release the flu virus into the air. You can become infected if these droplets land on your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Some people are more likely to spread the flu to those at high risk of complications. They include:

• caregivers

• child care providers

• healthcare providers

• family and other household members

• those who provide services in closed or relatively closed settings to people at high risk

Who is eligible for a flu shot at London Drugs?

The flu shot can be administered at all London Drugs locations for ages 5 years and up in BC, Alberta & Saskatchewan, and 7 years and up in Manitoba.

• The vaccine is usually given as 1 dose. Children under 9 years of age who have never had a seasonal influenza vaccine need 2 doses. The second dose of vaccine is important to raise their level of protection and should be given 4 weeks after the first dose.

The publicly funded vaccine (PFV) for flu is provided at no charge to:

• All Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan & Manitoba provincial residents

Note for British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan residents: If you would like private pay Fluzone HD flu vaccine (for 65 years and over), please call the pharmacy directly to ask about stock availability before booking your appointment online – click here for locations

How to book a Flu Shot

Flu shots can be administered at all London Drugs locations based on availability.

Booking in Alberta, BC, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan:

• Flu shot appointments must be booked online due to COVID-19 transmission prevention practices and physical distancing measures. Walk-in requests may be accommodated subject to availability. The booking process allows you to complete the consent form online and sends an appointment confirmation email.

• If the flu vaccine is currently not available in your area, you can sign up to be notified by email and we will inform you as soon as you can book an appointment online at your selected store location.

Book an appointment

What to know before your Flu Shot visit

Once you have completed an online booking appointment, following the steps below will ensure a safe and convenient experience when you arrive for your appointment.

• Wear a non-medical mask or cloth face covering to your appointment

• Bring your appointment confirmation email and healthcare card with you

• Arrive for your appointment on time. There is no need to check in early with the pharmacy, but avoid being late for the courtesy of everyone’s time and safety

• Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm (e.g., short-sleeved top or t-shirt)

Thank you for understanding and following these safety guidelines when arriving for your flu shot appointment. As a health care partner and essential service in our communities we have a responsibility to take all necessary precautions in the fight against COVID-19.