As we move into the winter season, it is time to take steps to avoid getting the flu.
The best way to do that, according to Alberta Health Services (AHS), is to receive the influenza immunization.
AHS released a statement that influenza immunization is available free of charge to all Albertans six months of age and older with both the injectable flu shot and nasal spray (FluMist) available at public influenza immunization clinics, pharmacist and physician offices around the province.
Ian Kruger is a pharmacist and co-owner of Grand Avenue Pharmacy in Cochrane, which started offering flu shots Oct. 20.
“We started this morning. It’s unbelievable. I counted and we have over 60 people booked today alone,” said Kruger, adding that last year they serviced over 600 people.
On Jan. 10 of this year, AHS had announced that influenza vaccines were no longer available in the Calgary zone, including Cochrane.
Kruger said this season they are hoping to have them available until April of next year, but said they always find there is a huge rush to get vaccinated at the beginning of the season.
“They have assured us that there is enough for everyone in Alberta, but I would still suggest that people get it done sooner rather than later,” he said.
Kruger said that at their location they could help anyone nine years and older. Children from six months to eight years old are recommended to go to a public health clinic.
He also said they would have the nasal mist at their location starting Nov. 3, which is actually more effective for children ages seven to 17 and is also available for people who might have a needle phobia.
AHS stated that last season more than 1,200 Albertans were hospitalized due to influenza and 30 people died, going on to explain that influenza immunization is the single most effective means of protection against the strains of influenza virus expected to circulate this season.
Each year, Kruger explained, they tweak the formula of the vaccination to adjust for what they are expecting the specific problems to be and that is why people should get the shot once a year.
He said he recommended that everyone should get the immunization, but especially those who may be immune-compromised with asthma or diabetes.
As for the worry that you will get flu symptoms after getting the shot, Kruger said that is just a myth with no scientific proof, but you might experience a bit of tenderness around the injection site the following day.
People who are interested in getting the immunization at Grand Avenue Pharmacy can call and make an appointment or just drop in. Kruger said that if someone drops in without an appointment they may have to wait, but they would be doing their best to get people through as efficiently as possible.
He said they would have appointments available Mondays through Saturdays at their location and they have dedicated one of their pharmacists to giving the immunization.
“We are making sure we are satisfying the needs of the community the best we can,” Kruger said.
For more information on the flu vaccine call Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.
