Lethbridge doctors and pharmacists are urging people to get their flu shots sooner rather than later.
Doctors and pharmacists are encouraging people to get immunized in southern Alberta this month.
Washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing and avoiding large crowds whenever possible are all actions to help avoid catching the flu or becoming contagious to someone else.
Emma McClure, a nurse at wellness services at Lethbridge College, said children under the age of five, particularly those 12 months and younger are mostly affected by the flu because of their weaker immune systems.
“The flu shot is recommended to everyone over the age of five months. It is especially for those who are at the higher risk from the complication of infection,” McClure said.
She said a fever over 100.4 degrees, aching muscles, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue and weakness are symptoms of influenza.
According to Alberta’s Influenza Immunization Policy, last season at least 52 people died from the flu and nearly 2,000 Albertans were hospitalized.
McClure also said getting a flu shot in the fall or early winter gives the body time to build up immunity.
“In the winter, people tend to stay inside more and they are closer to each other. So, I suggest everyone should get flu shots to protect their body from the serious illness,” McClure said.
Dilpreet Kaur, general studies student, said the flu shot is the best defense against the sickness.
“Getting vaccinated also protects people that are around us, including those who are more exposed to serious flu illness, like babies and young children, older people and people with long-lasting health illnesses,” Kaur said.
She said the flu shot virus changes from year to year, so it is important to get a flu shot every year.
“The seasonal flu vaccine is changed every year to keep up with the three strains of the virus. You need to get a new vaccine every year to stay safe,” Kaur said.
Free flu shots are now available at public health clinics. Anyone who wants to get flu shots must show a valid health card.
