Vaccinations are available at the clinic until the end of the working day this Jan. 17.

While there is no major problem with influenza in the Kivalliq this year, health-care workers want to improve upon the number of people vaccinated against the disease every year.

Home-care nurse Mary Myers says the clinic is open to all age brackets.

She says the primary focus is on people 50 years of age and older, children six months to six years, and any one with an illness that puts them at risk, such as diabetes, renal disease, kidney disease, or an immune-system problem.

"Our goal is for people not to catch the flu, so they don't end up with pneumonia and getting even sicker," says Myers.

"The vaccine is just a simple needle, although the first year of vaccination for children under the age of nine requires two immunizations a month apart."

The flu vaccine is about 70 per cent effective in preventing influenza, but more than 90 per cent effective in preventing influenza deaths.

In addition to the general public, it's also important for health-care workers to receive the vaccination so they're a source of prevention against their clients catching the flu.

"It's also important for health-care workers to receive the shot so, in case of a pandemic (worldwide flu epidemic), there are people to take care of those who are ill."

Anyone wishing to make an appointment for their immunization can phone either the health centre or public health.

Those wanting a home or work-site visit are asked to phone home care.

"Just to further encourage people to be vaccinated, everyone who receives the flu vaccine will be entered into a draw for airline tickets.

"We will be announcing the lucky winner(s) on Jan. 22."