Why is immunization important? Immunization is the single most effective means of preventing influenza infection and illness. It's important for all Albertans (six months of age and older) to get immunized against influenza, every year, to reduce transmission of illness.
Who is eligible for influenza immunization in Alberta? All Albertans over 6 months of age are eligible to receive the influenza vaccine, free of charge. (All individuals who live, work, or go to school in Alberta).
Is influenza immunization free? Yes. Alberta offers the influenza vaccine to all Albertans (6 months of age and older), free of charge.
I was immunized last year. Do I need to be immunized again this year? Yes. Influenza viruses change from year to year, and when influenza viruses change, so do influenza vaccines. Each year, the World Health Organization identifies the strains of influenza expected to circulate that year, and the influenza vaccine is then developed to protect against these strains. Furthermore, the immunity you get from your shot fades overtime, meaning that you need to get immunized every year to be protected all over again, even if you've been immunized against the same strain(s) previously. It's as simple as that: to protect yourself against influenza, you need to be immunized against influenza each year. Make it part of your fall routine!
Why should I get an influenza immunization if I am healthy? Seasonal influenza immunization is one of the best ways to prevent influenza disease and the illness it can cause. Even healthy people not at risk of severe complications from influenza should get the vaccine as influenza can be severe and make you very sick. In addition to the usual five to ten days of serious illness, it can take weeks to fully recover, interrupting work, recreation and family activities.
Protecting yourself also benefits those around you who may be at risk of severe complications from influenza. As more people are protected through immunization, the influenza virus has less chance to multiply and circulate.
I don't normally get influenza so do I really need to be immunized? Yes. Everyone can benefit from getting a seasonal influenza immunization each year. Getting the vaccine improves your chances of having an influenza free season and also avoids transmitting to virus to those at high risk.
Is the vaccine safe? Yes. In Canada, all vaccines must go through a rigorous testing process, and meet stringent safety standards, before receiving approval from Health Canada.
Can I get influenza from the influenza vaccine? You cannot contract influenza from the influenza vaccine.
The influenza vaccine does not contain live viruses. Because the vaccine does not contain live viruses, it cannot cause influenza.
Who should NOT have the influenza vaccine?
Influenza vaccine should not be given to people who:
- Have a history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to influenza vaccine or any of its components
- Have had an unusually severe reaction to influenza vaccine in the past
- Are younger than six months of age. The seasonal influenza vaccine is not licensed for this group
Individuals with an egg allergy should talk to a public health nurse or their doctor before receiving vaccine.
See the Alberta Services Website for answers to questions like:
What if I'm allergic to latex?
Can the influenza vaccine be given if I am on medication(s)?
Can the influenza vaccine and other vaccines be given at the same time?
If I am currently taking an antiviral medication, is it safe to have the seasonal influenza vaccine?
How soon after I receive my influenza vaccine will I be immune?
How effective is the influenza vaccine?
What are the possible side effects of the seasonal influenza vaccine?
Is it safe for pregnant women to be immunized against influenza?
Is it safe for me to get immunized against influenza if I am breastfeeding?
What should you do if you have a reaction to the vaccine?
If you have any questions about the immunization you received, or have any unusual symptoms after the immunization, call HEALTHLink Alberta at:
- 403-943-5465 in Calgary
- 780-408-5465 in Edmonton
- Toll Free 1-866-408-5465elsewhere in Alberta
