With flu season just around the corner, starting Monday, Albertans will be able to roll up their sleeves to protect themselves from the virus.
But in addition to receiving a flu shot, this year the province is providing people with another option in warding off the flu bug - a nasal spray.
The spray is meant to serve as an alternative for people who don't like needles, and will only be available at certain clinics. However, it's not recommended for pregnant women, asthma sufferers or people over the age of 59.
"Why not if you just have to sniff something," said Desiree French. "I think that's a lot easier than rolling up your arm and getting a shot."
Health officials are hoping others will share that same the new method will draw more people to immunization clinics than last year, when only under a quarter of Albertans received a flu shot.
Despite the new needle-free option, though, some will still be getting vaccinated the old-fashioned way.
"I don't like needles as much as the next guy, but it is pretty quick and easy," said Doug French.
Others still aren't convinced.
Mason Meyers and his wife are among those who will not be getting vaccinated. "I found that people get sick from the flu shot," Meyers said. "I don't want to get sick after a flu shot."
Alberta Health Services maintains getting the flu shot is the most effective way of protecting yourself from the virus, and is encouraging everyone over the age of six months to get immunized starting Monday.
The province believes part of the reason many people don't receive flu shots is because of misinformation.
"People do access info on the web. A lot of that info is not accurate but, unfortunately, that shapes their opinions," said AHS Senior Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Gerry Predy on October 4th.
To find your nearest immunization clinic, click here.
With files from Linda Nguyen.
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