Windsor-Essex residents warned to get flu shots early

In this Sept. 1, 2009 file photo, Walgreen's pharmacy manager, Whitney Workman injects a customer with the seasonal flu vaccine in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Mary Ann Chastain, File)

The president and CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital is warning residents to get the flu shot early.

David Musyj says traditionally, the local flu season mirrors that of the Australian experience.

The number of influenza cases in Australia has been dramatically higher this year, and the influenza season in that country started sooner than in previous years.

More than 200 people have died across the country and a reported 400 babies have come down with the virus in one Australian province alone, according to public health officials.

Musyj says early vaccination is very important.

He adds even if you are healthy, you can spread the virus without showing any symptoms and that would put the lives of loved ones in jeopardy.

The flu vaccine will be distributed across Windsor-Essex starting mid-October.

It will be available at health units, doctors' offices and pharmacies but a recent survey by Shoppers Drugs Mart has shown 11 per cent of adults have lost trust in vaccines.