As the leaves fall and the temperature continues to drop, flu season is almost upon us.
Starting Monday, October 21, 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. Alberta Health Services clinics and some pharmacies 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.
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?
- Start by talking to your family doctor or calling your doctor’s clinic. Search our clinic directory
- If you don’t have a family doctor, visit albertafindadoctor.ca to find one.
- Some Calgary Foothills PCN clinics are offering influenza immunization to other patients. See below for information about these clinics:
- Bowmont Travel Clinic (call 403-247-0787 for more information). The clinic is located at 6535 Bowness Road NW
- Varsity Medical Clinic (call 587-329-8279). The clinic is located at #230, 8 Varsity Estates Circle NW
- Review a list of Alberta Health Services Clinics offering immunization
- You can also call your local pharmacy to ask if they are offering this service. Please note: Children less than five years age must be immunized at a physician office or Alberta Health Services clinic.
More information, tips
Visit the Alberta Health Services influenza immunization website for more information.
