Over 300 cases of influenza declared since Jan. 1

Times Reporter 

 

There has been what seems like an increased number of reported cases of the flu this year, which has seen people scrambling to get flu shots. Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta Health Services Dr. James Talbot said what they are seeing is H1N1. It is not a pandemic, but is a recurring strain. Almost all of the influenza seen in the province this year is H1N1. 

Alberta Health Services (AHS) does not do a community-by-community breakdown, but could confirm that in the Calgary Zone, which includes Strathmore, there have been 357 lab-confirmed cases of influenza since Jan. 1. 

 “H1N1 is one of the influenza strains which the vaccine protects against. From 2010 forward, the annual vaccine has provided protection against H1N1 among other strains of influenza. Vaccination is the best way for people to protect themselves and their families from influenza,” said an AHS public health representative.

“People still need to use common sense for those who haven’t been immunized. Hand washing is still a good idea, not blowing your nose and carrying the Kleenex around. One of the more important ones is if you are feeling ill or someone in the family is don’t go to work, don’t go to family events where you could pass it on to somebody else,” said Dr. Talbot.

He recommends checking with your pharmacy to make sure they have the vaccine since many pharmacies have run out and are waiting for more. In the meantime there are a couple of options for people in Strathmore. Flu shots are being offered by appointment only at the Strathmore Health Unit from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. five days a week until March. Call 403-361-7200 to book an appointment. 

There will also be a flu clinic at the hospital on Jan. 10. The clinic will be based on a first-come-first-served drop-in basis from 11:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. The shot is free for all Albertans and all you need to bring is your Alberta Health Card.