Getting a flu shot every year is important for anyone aged 6 months and older.  The flu shot is very effective in preventing influenza and side effects are  rare.  They include allergic reactions such as hives, rashes and facial swelling.

I highly recommend that you receive the flu shot this year.  

To schedule your appointment to receive the vaccine please call our office @ 519-658-4615 press 1.   You are also able to book your flu shot with the nurse with our booking online system. Please visit our web site @ https://www.forbesparkmedical.com

If you are over 65 and have received a flu shot elsewhere, we'd like to update our records.  Please email us @ forbesparkmed@gmail.com or call our office.

Our after-hours clinic is open Monday to Thursday from 5-8pm and Saturdays 10-1 pm for those patients who require same day assessment. 

Below are a few tips for managing cold and flu symptoms at home:

1) Fever – This is a sign your body is fighting off infection but does not necessarily mean a bacterial infection. Consider treating the fever at home with Tylenol and/or Advil, rest and hydration. If the fever persists for 3-5 days, it is then reasonable to see your family physician. **If your child is less than 3 months old they should go directly to the ER at first onset of fever.**

2) Ear pain – While this may be a sign of an ear infection, the majority of ear infections are VIRAL infections. If you are older than 2 years of age, your family physician will likely take a “Watch and Wait Approach” meaning treat the ear pain with Tylenol and/or Advil for 24- 48 hours. If it improves, you do not require antibiotics. Antibiotics only work for bacterial infections, not viral infections.

3) Sore throat – While this can be a sign of strep throat, if you are older than 14 years of age or have a cough with your sore throat, it is more likely to be a VIRAL pharyngitis. Treatment includes hydration, throat lozenges, Tylenol and/or Advil.

4) Sinusitis – If your congestion has been ongoing for less than 7-10 days, you likely have a VIRAL sinusitis. This can be managed with nasal saline rinses, decongestants, and/or a nasal steroid spray. If your symptoms have been longer than 7-10 days, call the office it may be a bacterial infection.

5) If at any point, you are having difficulty breathing, dehydrated (decreased urine output), lethargic or concerned something isn’t right, you should always be seen! 

We hope you stay healthy this season and please know we are always here for you if needed.