CALGARY- The province is expected to run out of flu vaccine as early as Friday, despite thousands of people still not getting their shots.
Long lines at clinics around Alberta continued on Thursday, with many hoping to protect themselves from a strain that has hospitalized hundreds and been linked to at least eight deaths.
However, the province has completely run out of the flu mist vaccine, and expects to run out of the injectable vaccine by the end of the week.
“We’re holding back a small supply for use in outbreak situations,” explains Dr. Judy MacDonald from Alberta Health Services. “So, if we ever have an influenza outbreak declared then there is vaccine available should it be needed for control purposes.”
She adds that children will also be getting their full dosages.
“What we’re doing is setting aside vaccine for any child under nine who has received their first dose and requires a second dose. There’s a certain spacing, minimum spacing that’s required, so we’re on top of that and we will be making connections with those parents to bring their children back at the appropriate time.”
MacDonald says that hospitals have seen a drop in the number of admissions due to the flu, but continue to monitor cases closely. Nova Scotia has offered to loan part of its stock of the vaccine to Alberta, if the need arises.
Another concern that has been raised is that of staff vaccinations. As of Jan. 6, less than half of AHS employees had gotten a flu shot, despite the organizations message to workers that “no patient should get influenza from our staff while in our care.”
As for those still needing their shot, AHS plans to update its website with news of potential clinics after Friday, if the need for more arises. As of now, none are scheduled across the province.
-With files from Heather Yourex
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