As the leaves fall and the temperature continues to drop, flu season is almost upon us.

Starting Monday, October 15, all Albertans aged six months and older will be able to do their part to protect themselves and their families from influenza.

Ask your family doctor if your clinic is offering immunizations this winter. Pharmacies and some Alberta Health Services clinics are also offering this service on a drop-in basis.

Who should get the vaccine?

Everyone aged six months and older should have the influenza vaccine. It is free if you live, work or go to school in Alberta. Everyone is at risk of influenza, and anyone can get very sick and develop complications. However, the risk is highest if you have some types of health problems (for example, heart/lung conditions, diabetes, weak immune system, morbid obesity/very overweight), live in a care facility (for example, a nursing home), are 65 years or older, are a child under five years old, are pregnant or are Indigenous.

 

How many shots do I need?

Children under nine who are getting an influenza vaccine for the first time will need two shots, given at least four weeks apart. For everyone else, only one dose is needed.

Where can I get my flu shot?

More information, tips

Visit the AHS influenza immunization website for more information.