EDMONTON- The recent outbreak of influenza in our province has many Edmontonians rethinking the notion of getting vaccinated.
Since August, there have been over 1,100 confirmed cases of the flu in our province. Over 450 of those cases were here in Edmonton.
Dr. Marcia Johnson, a Medical Officer of Health with Alberta Health Services (AHS) says the number of cases of influenza is up this year compared to previous years.
As of January 5, public health had given approximately 149,000 doses of influenza vaccine but, that number doesn't take into account the people who were immunized by their doctor or pharmacist.
"Certainly, the numbers immunized by public health in the Edmonton area is less than it was last year," Johnson explained.
The increase in the number of cases of the flu has led to capacity pressures at area hospitals, partially because more people than usual are requesting treatment for influenza-like and gastro-intestinal-type illnesses, according to AHS. The strain on the health care system led to the cancellation of at least five surgeries in Edmonton.
But, Johnson says over the past week, the number of people coming into public health centres to get immunized has increased.
"With all the attention, people have realized that it's here and it's causing trouble and it feels awful."
It's not too late to get immunized, and because viruses can be very different, immunization is still recommended for those who have already had a dose of the flu.
"We're just in the middle of our influenza season. We are anticipating that we'll have three to six more weeks of this particular strain of influenza circulating. There usually is a second type of influenza entering our community and our vaccines do cover the three most common strains of influenza that are expected to circulate," Johnson explained. "Now, if you're not immunized, is a good time. Today is better than tomorrow."
"People should recognize that when you're immunized, you're not protected immediately. It does take 10 to 14 days to have its full effect," she added.
AHS is also asking the public to help protect themselves from illness by staying home when sick, getting plenty of rest, and maintaining fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
"Covering your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, washing your hands frequently, and staying home when you're ill is really, really important," Johnson said. "Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are very, very effective in cleaning your hands when you're worried about influenza viruses and other germs. So, don't forget that just because you're not near a sink."
Johnson hopes if more people get immunized, it will help relieve some of the pressure on our health care system.
For clinic locations and details, call Health Link Alberta, or visit www.albertahealthservices.ca/immunization.
With files from Shannon Greer.
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