See your doctor or local pharmacist
An overwhelming majority (78%) of British Columbians believe that it is important to get the flu vaccination every year in order to help protect those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness. Despite this, only six in ten plan to get the flu shot this year.
The poll, conducted by Insights West on behalf of London Drugs, found that among those who are unlikely to get a flu shot, the most common reason is a belief that it is unnecessary because they are healthy.
Those who don't plan on being immunized also cited concerns about negative side effects (25%) and worries that the vaccine might make them sick with the flu (23%).
While one in five (22%) British Columbians say they aren't likely to get a flu shot because they tend to forget or don't get around to it.
Older British Columbians, age 55 and over, are more likely to get a flu shot this season (65%), compared to those between the ages of 18 and 54 (52%).
Eight in ten (82%) British Columbians are aware that the flu vaccine helps prevent hospitalizations and saves lives.
