Flu Shots

East Wellington FHT Flu Shot Clinics

Our seasonal flu clinics are now open. Getting your flu shot at a local pharmacy is just as safe and effective as getting it at your doctor's office. The best flu shot is the one you can get in a timely manner. If the high-dose vaccine is unavailable, we strongly recommend accepting a regular dose rather than waiting.

Booking & Appointment Rules

• Patients Only: These clinics are strictly for registered patients of the East Wellington Family Health Team.
• By Appointment Only: Walk-ins are not permitted. Use the link provided in your email notification or contact the office directly to book.
• Priority Access: Booking communications are rolled out in stages, starting with adults aged 65+ and high-risk patients (such as chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients).
• Requirements: You must complete a consent form and screening questionnaire upon arrival.
• Post-Shot Safety: All patients must wait 10 minutes in the clinic after receiving their vaccine to monitor for adverse reactions.
• External Flu Shots: If you receive your vaccine at a pharmacy or public health clinic, please call our office or click update so we can update your health records.

Flu Symptoms vs. Colds

Unlike a cold, influenza symptoms usually start suddenly. Watch for:

• High fever and chills
• Cough and sore throat
• Severe muscle aches and fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Note for children: Stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea are also common.

Symptoms appear 1 to 4 days after exposure. You can spread the virus to others up to 2 days before you feel sick. If you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, please notify the clinic before your arrival.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Most people recover from the flu within a week to 10 days. However, you should see a doctor immediately if you or an adult in your care experiences:

• Shortness of breath or rapid, troubled breathing
• Chest pain or low blood pressure
• Sudden dizziness or ongoing confusion
• Severe, continuous vomiting
• A high fever lasting more than 3 days
• Bluish or greyish skin colour
• Bloody or heavily discoloured mucus

When to Seek Care for a Child

Contact a healthcare provider immediately if a child under your care has the flu and shows any of the following signs:

• Refusing to eat or not drinking enough fluids
• Difficulty waking up or failing to interact with others
• Extreme irritability (does not want to play or be held)