Flu season is almost here, but so are this year's Influenza Vaccines.

Every year scientists and Vaccinologists from the World Health Organization and the Centre for Disease Control examine the current strains of Influenza and create vaccines for that year, based on which strain of the virus are more prevalent.

Influenza vaccinations do contain the actual flu virus, in order to trigger an anti-bodies response from our immune systems.

Alberta Health Services says it is still impossible to catch influenza from the flu shot though, as the virus components used in the vaccine are dead.

Last year there were 39,192 cases of influenza recorded in Canada, and so far this year, Infection and Prevention Control (IPAC) in Canada, has recorded 117 cases since the season began on August, 25.

Many people still confuse influenza with what gastroenteritis or what is more typically coined as the stomach flu.

Symptoms of the stomach flu are nausea, vomiting and general malaise, while influenza is a more serious virus affecting your respiratory system.

According to Alberta Health Services, Influenza symptoms start suddenly and may include: fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, headache, muscle aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue.

Vomiting and diarrhea can happen but is more common in young children.

AHS says everyone (6 months and older) should receive the influenza vaccine. It is free if you live, work or go to school in Alberta.

Anyone can get influenza and have a chance to get very sick and develop complications.

The risk is highest if you already have certain health problems like heart/lung conditions, diabetes, weak immune system.

Albertan's 65 years or older, children under 5 years old, pregnant women, and indigenous people are considered higher risk, and are advised to get vaccinated. AHS says it's important to get vaccinated if you have relatives who are high risk, or are a caregiver to someone who falls into the high risk category.

This year's Flu Clinics will offer free vaccinations over five dates at the Foothills Centennial Centre.

All Flu Clinics are drop in based, and the available dates in Okotoks are as follows;

  • Wed Oct 23 2019 - 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM

  • Wed Oct 30 2019 - 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM

  • Wed Nov 13 2019 - 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM

  • Thu Nov 20 2019 - 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM

  • Wed Nov 27 2019 - 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM

For a list of locations around the Foothills, Click here.

You can also receive free flu shots at most pharmacies and doctors offices.

For more influenza facts, symptoms and frequently asked questions, visit Alberta Health Services or this link to see AHS's Influenza Fact sheet.

More information on the vaccine can be found on the IPAC website.

 

Questions, comments or story ideas? Email news@okotoksonline.com