With flu season fast approaching, Lethbridge College nursing students say it’s important for students to know how to prevent the spread of illnesses.

  With the amount of viruses going around, the health clinic at the college in conjunction with Alberta Health Services are encouraging the importance of getting a flu shot this year.

 No one knows exactly how many people are expected to get sick this year, but the college is helping prevent the spread of illnesses with free flu shots. 

These shots will be available next month and the college is encouraging everyone to get one. 

“Get it before you need it” – That’s what Alberta Health Services is calling this year’s flu campaign which began Monday in the Cave.

“It’s important for everyone to get a flu shot. It’s the only way that can really prevent the flu. In the college there are over 5,000 people and everyone is spreading their germs. It’s a lot easier to get it than people think.,” said Jan Pawlack, a Lethbridge college nurse.

Some students believe it’s important to get vaccinated and do plan on getting a flu shot this year.

“It is important that everyone is not sick and spreading the flu to everyone else,” said Lily Moradel, a general studies student.

However, not all students agree with the idea of vaccinations and say it’s unnecessary. 

“I don’t think it’s important to get a flu shot. I have never had a vaccination in my life and I have been fine,” said Colton Newton, a natural resource compliance student. 

To prevent the spread of more germs, health experts say students should be practicing proper hand washing techniques, coughing or sneezing into the elbow instead of hands and even carrying travel-sized hand sanitizers. 

Last year college nurses confirm that 1,200 students came out to get flu shots. 

This year they are hoping to have at least two thousand but will be prepared for more if they need it.