Influenza vaccines will be available soon for Airdronians and Albertans.

The public's access to the 2023–24 Alberta influenza immunization program begins on October 16, according to the Alberta College of Pharmacy.

The number of vaccines the province will be providing for this flu season is unknown.

Dr. Mark Joffe, the province's new chief medical officer of health is encouraging Albertans to get their flu shots and take steps to help reduce the spread of influenza as he is expecting a severe season.

The brand-new Moderna XBB.1.5 vaccine should become available soon as well. On September 12, Health Canada approved the booster shot which targets the latest variant of COVID-19.

Dr. Joffe encouraged all Albertans to stay home when feeling sick as well as other precautions. Here are some other recommendations he is advising:

  • Make the choice to stay up to date on your vaccinations, and speak to a physician or other care provider if you have questions about options.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Regularly clean hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wash hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Maintain good respiratory etiquette by covering coughs and sneezes.
  • Avoid or limit time spent in crowded indoor places.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items at home, especially when someone in your home is sick.

According to statistics provided by the province, there have been around 28 cases of influenza and five lab-confirmed cases of RSV since August. 

"During the 2022-23 Influenza season, more than 1.26 million Albertans were immunized from influenza, with nearly 970,000 receiving their vaccine from a pharmacist. Overall, 28 per cent of Albertans were immunized during the 2022-23 season," stated the Alberta College of Pharmacy.

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