Free flu shots are now available to people over six months old in Grande Prairie. The Public Health Centre in the provincial building will be offering clinics from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays this season.
Medical Officer of Health for Alberta Health Services Dr.Albert de Villiers says getting the vaccine is one of the best things people can do to protect themselves from the flu.
“It’s a very good way of protection. I mean there are other ways as well. Wash your hands, cover your cough, stay home when you’re ill, do those regular things but this is probably the most important one that’s going to help you the most.”
Last flu season, 92 people died in hospital of the flu in Alberta. De Villiers says that even those who are young and healthy still need the shot because if they don’t, they can put others at risk.
“I might get sick and then make my family sick or make my elderly grandparents sick or make a young child sick before six months… We want to make sure we protect everybody. Our family, our friends and our colleagues as well.”
He also says it’s important to get the flu shot early because it can take two weeks for the vaccine to take effect.
Anyone six months and older can get the flu shot at the Public Health Centre or at a pharmacy for those who are five years and up.