Albertans can now receive their annual flu shot by booking an appointment online through the province's vaccine booking system.--PHOTO COURTESY AHS
kking@medicinehatnews.com
Health officials are encouraging Albertans to protect themselves from seasonal influenza by getting a flu shot.
“Influenza is a respiratory viral illness that impacts our lungs, our throat and our respiratory system,” Dr. Vivien Suttorp, medical officer of health for Alberta Health Services’ South zone, told the News. “Typically, October through March is when we see influenza cases. And, historically, our peak is usually around either the end of December, middle of January or end of January.”
Symptoms can vary from person to person, with common symptoms including sore throat, runny nose, fever, headaches, muscle and joint aches and fatigue.
Symptoms tend to be mild, but can become more severe – even fatal – depending on the strain of influenza and susceptibility of the individual infected.
Seniors and those with chronic conditions – such as autoimmune conditions – are most susceptible, says Suttorp. Though some doctors are warning children may also be at greater risk this flu season.
In an effort to avoid severe outcomes, Suttorp encourages Albertans to get a flu shot.
“A vaccine is a part of our protection against viral illnesses, and some bacterial illnesses as well (as) having immunization decrease the risk of severe illness and hospitalization for an individual,” said Suttorp.
“It gives individuals antibodies so when they encounter a virus (they) already have, basically, an army of antibodies ready to start protecting them … Being immunized also protects individuals in the household who may not be eligible for vaccine, like those under six months or individuals with severe conditions.”
Composition of the flu vaccine changes year to year based on which strains scientists and health experts predict will be most prevalent. This year, the vaccine is targeted to protect against four strains, with a high-dose vaccine available for individuals aged 65-plus.
As well as getting the flu shot, Suttorp encourages anyone eligible to consider getting their COVID-19 vaccination, COVID booster shots or COVID bivalent vaccination also. Flu shots and COVID shots are safe to be administered the same day, but may need to be spaced out depending on an individual’s circumstances.
While vaccination is not 100 per cent effective at preventing infection and illness, Suttorp says it can make a huge difference in protecting people from the worst case scenario. Especially as flu cases increase through the season.
As of Oct. 22, just under 300,000 Albertans had received a flu shot this season; with South zone immunizations totalling 20,505 and Medicine Hat immunizations totalling 6,740.
There are currently 138 lab-confirmed cases of influenza throughout the province and 21 hospitalizations, four of which are in the ICU. However, Suttorn notes actual case counts are likely higher as a result of lab testing limitations.
Vaccination appointments can be scheduled through Alberta’s vaccine booking system, with many family physician offices and local pharmacies also administering shots.
