Flu shots available through doctors and pharmacies, but no AHS drop-in clinics this year

By GILLIAN SLADE on October 16, 2020.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade

Many pharmacies and doctors offices are already providing influenza immunization but families with children under five can make an appointment with Alberta Health Services for after Oct. 19.

Due to COVID-19 there will be no AHS drop-in flu clinics.

Those eligible to receive influenza immunization through AHS are required to book an AHS appointment using the online booking tool that is already available.

https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/influenza/influenza.aspx

Pharmacists will offer vaccines to all Albertans over five years old, while doctors, in general, will provide to those over nine. AHS says some physicians may be offering vaccines to children as young as six months, but you need to ask your doctor’s office.

Individuals without a provincial health care number, or those in communities where there are no other immunizing health-care providers, can call Health Link to seek immunization through AHS.

A spokesperson for AHS says the organization is working to ensure that higher-risk populations, including seniors, are getting immunized against influenza this season.

“Through the Alberta Outreach Program, AHS and partners are immunizing seniors in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, supportive living and auxiliary hospitals.”

Some supportive living facilities have also partnered with community pharmacists to provide in-facility influenza immunization.

The News is told that a few local condo complexes are working with pharmacies to provide an on-site flu shot clinic for residents.

AHS says certain seniors’ residences have made arrangements for residents to receive the vaccine from the pharmacy provider.