Free influenza immunization shots now available and health officials are encouraging everyone to roll up their sleeves once again.

Appointments for flu shots can be booked to receive at shot at participating pharmacies, some doctor’s offices, and AHS public health clinics.

You can book an appointment by calling a local Cochrane pharmacy, going to bookvaccine.alberta.ca, or by contacting Health Link at 811.

As well, some pharmacies are welcoming drop-ins.

Being immunized for influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic is more important than ever as it will help to lessen the strain on the healthcare system.

Further facts:

  • Influenza is a respiratory virus that can cause serious illness and death, particularly in vulnerable groups like seniors, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.
  • Alberta’s government has ordered 2.1 million doses of influenza vaccine to help protect the health of Albertans.
  • If you have children under age 5 in your house, immunizations will be booked for everyone at an AHS public health clinic.
  • In the 2020/2021 influenza season, Alberta had no lab-confirmed seasonal flu cases and no flu-related deaths.
  • That compares to 8,470 confirmed cases of the virus in 2019-2020, and 41 deaths.

It was because of the strict health protocols implemented for the COVID-19 virus and well as high flu immunization uptake that eradicated the flu virus in 2020.

So far, in 2021, three cases of lab confirmed influenza cases have been reported.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Deena Hinshaw is encouraging Albertans to repeat their efforts made last year in getting immunized against the flu virus. “Let’s do even better than last year when we came forward in record numbers to get our flu vaccine, washed our hands regularly, covered our sneezes and stayed home when we were sick. And, if you haven’t already done so, consider also getting the COVID-19 vaccine. This is something each of us can do to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our health-care system that we all rely on.”

Dr. Hinshaw also says, “Scientific and medical reviews have determined it is safe to get both vaccines at the same time. So, if you are eligible to get a COVID-19 dose, you can book your COVID-19 and influenza immunization appointments to take place at the same time.”

More influenza information available HERE.