AHS: Influenza vaccine no longer available in Calgary Zone
Posted Jan 10, 2014 5:50 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Friday evening, as influenza immunization clinics were closed, Alberta Health Services announced the clinics would remain closed for the season.
A supply of the vaccination would be held for children needing their second dose as well as in case of an outbreak.
Guardians of children who require a second dose, are asked to call Health Link Alberta at 403-943-5465 or their local public health office for information.
Alberta Health Services officials advises the public to seek more information on self-care for the flu at home on their website.
It will also list which signs to watch for to determine when to seek medical care.
The vaccines, which take months order and develop, are running low after an unexpected late-season surge for the product in western provinces.
Despite finding an extra half-million flu shots the federal government can purchase, there is still the fear all of Canada could run out.
Dr. Gregory Taylor, with the Public Health Agency of Canada, said if demand spikes in central and eastern Canada, vaccine demand will likely outstrip supply.
Here in Calgary, long lines at both clinics continued Friday afternoon as Calgarians hoped to get some of the last shots available.
With two kids in her stroller waiting patiently and after a 45 minute wait before even getting inside, mother Claire said she’s relieved this errand is over.
“I’ve been here now two and half hours and I just got it, people are really nice in line, everyone understands,” said Claire.
A sentiment shared by fellow mother Sandra with her son who said after procrastinating until the last minute she’s learned her lesson for next year.
“I have two other children and a husband and they got their shot about a month ago and we didn’t go for whatever reason, but yes we are really regretting that decision,” said Sandra.
Most people 660News spoke with say, despite the wait, it was well-organized with both staff and those in line showing a lot of patience and expressing relief the day was over.
