EDMONTON – Flu season is just around the corner, and health officials are encouraging Albertans to get immunized starting next week to help prevent the spread of influenza.
On Monday, the free vaccine will be available at public immunization clinics, as well as some pharmacies and physician offices. Anyone over the age of six months can get the shot; those aged two to 17 will also be able to get the vaccine through a nasal spray.
“Some people are skeptical of the influenza vaccine. What I say to those people is it can help reduce your chances of getting infected with influenza by up to 70 per cent,” said Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. James Talbot.
Health officials say there have already been a few cases of influenza this fall.
Last year, nearly 920,000 Albertans were immunized, including about 60 per cent of seniors and 30 per cent of children between six to 23 months. But officials stress that the immunization is for all Albertans.
“This vaccine reduces the spread of this illness and deaths in our province,” said Health Minister Fred Horne. “It also helps reduce pressure on our emergency departments and on our health care system as a whole.”
The average cost of treating a hospitalized person with influenza in Alberta is $17,000, according to the province.
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a respiratory disease that affects the nose, throat and lungs. It’s caused by a virus that is easily passed from person to person. You can help prevent its spread through proper hand washing.
For more information on where you can get immunized, visit the AHS website.
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