Brampton, December 11, 2018 – Community and health system leaders including City of Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, William Osler Health System President and CEO Dr. Brendan Carr, and Central West Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) CEO Scott McLeod are rolling up their sleeves to highlight the importance of preventative health and getting the flu shot this season.
“I am pleased to take part in this year’s flu prevention program,” said Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton. “By having the flu shot, we are all committing to help stop the spread of influenza in our schools, workplaces and community at large.”
Complications from the flu can include dehydration, ear infections and sinus infections. The flu can also worsen long-term medical conditions, like congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. In the more serious of instances, the flu can also have a fatal outcome. Over 12,000 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths are attributed to the flu in Canada each year. Infants and children under five years of age, seniors over the age of 65, and people with underlying health conditions are most at risk.
“Every year the flu takes its toll on the community, as well as our patients, their families, and those providing care,” said Dr. Brendan Carr, William Osler Health System President and CEO. “Immunization is more than just a flu shot – it’s about protecting the health of everyone around us. At Osler, it’s one of the most important things we can do to look after the most vulnerable in our care.”
Over the holiday season, local hospitals experience an annual surge in patient volumes. This increase in activity places additional pressure on patient flow and the general health care system. Preventative health measures, including immunization and the flu shot, are not only beneficial to the overall health and wellness of an individual but help to reduce volume and system pressures through avoidable and unnecessary use of hospital emergency departments as well.
In anticipation of this year’s surge, health system partners from across Brampton and surrounding communities are working together to ensure residents are informed about the benefits of preventative health and the positive impact immunization has to both the community and local health care system.
“The Central West LHIN is fortunate to work with a variety of partners, including the City of Brampton and William Osler Health System, who are actively engaged in their local health care system and with whom we share a common belief,” said LHIN CEO Scott McLeod. “Immunization is the strongest defense we have against preventable diseases like the flu and, as a matter of good practice, LHIN residents should contact their health care provider or visit their local pharmacy to get a flu shot.”
The Central West LHIN has compiled a number of resources to help patients and families plan for the holiday season. For more information please visit www.centralwesthealthline.ca
