By allowing pharmacists to administer the flu shot, the province has made the vaccination more accessible, according to Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci.

People can also get their free flu shot through family doctors and nurse-led flu immunization clinics.

“We’re making it easier than ever to get your free flu shot,” Bartolucci said, in a press release.

In Sudbury, participating pharmacies include the Rexall locations on Cedar Street and Long Lake Road.

“Getting immunized against the flu is a proactive way to protect not just your own health, but also family, friends and co-workers who may be susceptible to illness – that’s why I’m getting my flu shot early, protecting myself and those around me.”

Starting this week, specially-trained pharmacists can give the flu shot to Ontarians, age five and over. You can find health care providers offering the flu shot in our community at Ontario.ca/flu.

The flu vaccine is safe and effective, and getting it early helps you and people around you stay healthy, the press release said.

The flu can lead to serious health problems, and those most at risk are the elderly, young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. The sooner you get your flu shot, the sooner you’re protected – and the more likely we are to reduce illness, hospitalization and deaths from flu in the community.

“Influenza can be very serious to your health,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, medical officer of health with the Sudbury and District Health Unit.

“Immunization with the influenza vaccine is the best way to protect you and those around you from getting sick and spreading the flu. It is also important to wash your hands often, cover your coughs and sneezes and stay home when you are sick.”