 | Alberta's annual influenza immunization program will kick off October 15, and Albertans are encouraged to take advantage of the universal program once again. Getting the flu shot is a no-cost, safe and highly effective way to prevent illness and to stay healthy. | |
Edmonton - October 2, 2012 - Alberta's annual influenza immunization program will kick off October 15, and Albertans are encouraged to take advantage of the universal program once again.
“Fall means the start of flu season,” said Minister of Health Fred Horne. “Getting the flu shot is a no-cost, safe and highly effective way to prevent illness and stay healthy this year. I hope all Albertans will take the time to protect themselves and their families by getting immunized.”
Similar to last year, the influenza vaccine will be offered free of charge to all Albertans six months of age and older. The vaccine will be available through public immunization clinics, as well as through some pharmacists and physician offices. A nasal spray vaccine (FluMist) will also be available for the first time this year, targeted towards eligible children between two and 17 years of age.
“As the single most effective means of protecting oneself from influenza infection and illness, annual immunization is an important part of every Albertans’ fall routine,” said Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. James Talbot. “We call it an annual immunization for a reason: the virus is continually changing, and to maintain your immunity and be protected for the season ahead, you need to be immunized every year.”
While immunization is recommended for all Albertans, individuals at high risk for severe complications related to influenza (including children between the ages of six and 23 months, anyone over 65 years of age, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions, including severe obesity), are encouraged to be immunized as soon as possible.
“Health care workers are also a very important group to be immunized,” said Dr. Talbot, “especially those of us who are in regular contact with patients.”
In addition to finding clinic schedules through local newspapers, Health Link, and the Alberta Health Services (AHS) website, this year Albertans can also find influenza info on-the-go, using the mobile-optimized clinic finder tool. An influenza category will also be added to AHS' popular App in mid-October. Albertans will also have opportunity to connect with Dr. Predy through social media, both for a Twitter Chat on October 10th and also through his weekly Influenza blog, launching the week of October 15 th.
"Albertans want to know where, when, and most importantly, why they can and should get immunized," said Alberta Health Services Senior Medical Officer of Health Dr. Gerry Predy, "By providing more ways to find this information, we are responding to that demand, and in doing so, making it that much easier for all Albertans to get immunized this year, and every year."
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