Shot appointments open for COVID-19, influenza in Nova Scotia

Appointments to get vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19 are now available in Nova Scotia.

People can get vaccinated by booking online, calling 1-833-797-7772 or using the YourHealthNS app. People can also get the shots from family doctors, nurse practitioners and mobile clinics.

Nova Scotia Health recommended everyone aged six months and older get vaccinated to prevent the spread of these respiratory viruses.

Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, said the first appointments will be on Oct. 12 for influenza and Oct. 18 for COVID-19.

"We are starting to see some cases of influenza and [respiratory syncytial virus] RSV, so those viruses are starting to emerge in Nova Scotia," he said, noting this is not uncommon, with the typical surges in those viruses happening in December and into January and February.

Unlike other years, patients do not have the option of what brand of COVID-19 vaccine they get. People over 65 will have access to an enhanced influenza vaccine.

New COVID-19 testing requirements

Additionally, the COVID-19 testing requirements have changed. With polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid tests in short supply, the province is limiting their use to those who are high-risk and have symptoms.

Both influenza and COVID-19 have symptoms such as high fever, headaches, general pain, fatigue, a runny nose, sneezing and a sore throat.

Last summer, Nova Scotia saw a surge of COVID-19, with 746 new cases and 21 long-term care outbreaks reported from July 21 to Aug. 24

Strang said if you have symptoms but are not a high-risk individual, you should stay home until the acute symptoms pass to avoid exposing others and, if that is not possible, wear a mask.

"We really ask the public that, if you're not in one of the groups that actually needs a rapid test to know if you have COVID or not, please do not take rapid tests out in the community. Leave them for those who need them," he said.

Shelly McNeil, medical director at Nova Scotia Health's emerging and re-emerging infections network, said take-home tests will still be available for high-risk people who cannot access testing facilities.