Interior Health is urging Kamloopsians and others to get the flu shot which is free to people over the age of six months.

Health officials say that it will will help keep pressure off of the province’s health care system which is still grappling with COVID-19 cases.

“Everyone is at risk of influenza and spreading it to others, and as we continue to face the challenges of COVID-19, we encourage all British Columbians to get immunized,” Interior Health interim chief medical health officer, Dr. Sue Pollock, said, in a statement.

“Now that the influenza vaccine is available at no cost to everyone who wants one, there’s no better time.”

People under the age of five or over the of 65, those who are pregnant, Aboriginal people, and people with underlying chronic health conditions are at risk of severe disease and complications from the flu.

You can book their appointments at pharmacies and clinics throughout the health authority. That includes at family doctors or nurse practitioners, First Nations community health nurse, or at the local health unit.

Public health measures brought in last year including an emphasis on handwashing, mask use and physical distancing helped reduce the spread of COVID-19 as well as influenza.

“Last year’s low influenza rates means our immunity against influenza is lower than usual,” Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry said. “Getting your influenza vaccine this year is more important than ever to protect yourself, your community and our overstretched health-care system.”

For more on the flu season including the location of clinics, go here. You can also call 8-1-1, or contact your local pharmacy, physician’s office, or public health unit.