The Direction de santé publique de la Montérégie (Montérégie Public Health Department) is inviting seniors and people with chronic illnesses to get vaccinated to protect themselves against complications from COVID-19 and influenza in early autumn, a time when respiratory infections are common.

This year, it will be possible to get both vaccines at the same visit. Those most at risk of complications from these infections, and those who live close to them, are invited to make an appointment without delay:

These include :

- the elderly

- people with heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes or a weakened immune system;

- pregnant women;

- people living with children under 6 months of age or other people at risk;

- healthcare workers.

Vaccination against pneumococcal disease will also be offered to people aged 65 and over, where such protection is indicated, as well as to people whose health status puts them at greater risk.

Free vaccines for everyone

All those who wish to will be able to receive the free flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine adapted to the new strains currently circulating. To receive the booster dose against COVID-19, however, you must wait six months after receiving your last dose, or after having contracted the disease.

The vaccination campaign against respiratory infections begins on October 10. To book an appointment, simply visit Clic santé at https://clicsante.ca.

You can also call 1-877-644-4545 from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to book an appointment. 

Protecting loved ones

COVID-19 has been circulating more widely in recent weeks. As is the case every fall, the Direction de santé publique expects the flu and other respiratory infections to multiply. To avoid spreading these infections to those around you, we recommend that you: 

- Stay home if you have a fever;- Wear a mask if you have a sore throat, cough or nasal congestion;

- Do not visit vulnerable people such as young children, the elderly, or people in poor health for the duration of symptoms;

- Cough into the crease of your elbow and wash your hands often with soap and water.

For more information on vaccination against respiratory infections, please consult this link: https://www.quebec.ca/sante/conseils-et-prevention/vaccination/vaccination-contre-infections-respiratoires.