Reports of some cases of influenza already coming into the Calgary area mean that flu season is here and it's time to protect yourself from whatever the flu might bring this year.

Starting today, (October 23), the annual influenza immunization program begins in Alberta, with flu shots being offered free of charge to all Albertans six months of age and older.  The vaccine will be available at hundreds of Alberta Health Services (AHS) public influenza immunization clinics, as well as many pharmacies and doctor's offices throughout the province.

AHS Medical Officer of Health Dr. Judy MacDonald says it's impossible to say what the flu season will be like this year, but other parts of the world have been hard hit.

"As to the severity of what to expect, we really don't know.  We know that some parts of the southern hemisphere, notably Australia did have a very severe season with influenza.  Lots and lots of cases, more so than normal and more hospital admissions."

For those who won't get immunized because they feel influenza isn't that serious, and others who are convinced getting the flu shot actually increases your chances of getting the virus, MacDonald has this to say.

"Influenza vaccines do not bring on influenza.  The vaccines are meant to protect.  Influenza is not as mild as people think it is.  It's a respiratory virus infection, so it affects your lungs, your throat, your breathing and can go beyond that, you can actually get pneumonia and sometimes need to be hospitalized and even worse, we know that it can be serious enough that it causes death.  We know that it's not a mild disease."

Over a six month period last season, more than 1,600 Albertans were hospitalized and 64 died with the flu.  Influenza caused more hospital emergency department visits than heart attacks and strokes.  

MacDonald says that last year influenza immunization cut Albertan's risk for getting the virus by more than 40 percent, but, she also says that last year's immunization was for last year.  "You need this year's immunization to be protected this season."

MacDonald has a final word of advice.  "Infuenza does not discriminate.  Though some Albertans are at greater risk of severe complications, no one is naturally immune.  Please don't take the risk.  Influenza can be one less thing we battle this winter.  For yourself, and your loved ones, get immunized."

For more information, including local clinic schedules, visit here.

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