Without the scare of an H1N1 pandemic this year and the addition of a new seasonal influenza vaccination, Alberta Health Services feels it’s better prepared to handle the upcoming flu season.

Lorne Clearsky, medical officer for Alberta Health Services south zone, says a flu vaccination that now includes the H1N1 strain should make things easier.
Last year there were two separate shots you needed to get to combat the flu, since the H1N1 strain was only offered as a separate shot.  
This year’s new seasonal influenza vaccination will now have three of the most common strains of the flu including the H1N1 strain as well, a request that was implemented by the World Health Organization after last year’s pandemic scare.
Even though there is no real fear of a pandemic this year, Chinook Regional Hospital registered nurse Reema Khullar feels everyone should get the flu shot unless they have any allergies towards the shot.
“Especially health care workers because it protects your patients, yourself and family members,” says Khullar.