H1N1 keeps marching on across Alberta, leaving 372 hospitalized and eight dead.
ìTo date, Alberta has 1,571 cases of Influenza A, H1N1 or H3N2,î said Alberta's chief medical officer Dr. James Talbot. ìLast year, H1N1 cases peaked in early January, but this year it seems the peak will occur in late January or early February.î
He said 225 cases of influenza have been diagnosed in the central zone, which includes Innisfail.
A case of death due to Avian flu, H5N1, was reported as due to H1N1 early in January but once it was re-evaluated, the death was withdrawn from the H1N1 total. The present vaccine does not protect individuals from H5N1.
Talbot was careful to note the current 2013-2014 influenza season is not a pandemic but added precautions should be taken to prevent contracting the illness.
ìThere are strategies you can use to decrease your chance of contracting H1N1,î added Dr. Talbot. ìIf you don't feel well, and suspect that you do have the flu, don't go to work, don't go to school, and avoid family gatherings. Wash your hands regularly, and lastly, if you haven't been immunized yet, get your shot if possible.î
He added that vaccination numbers are higher than last year already when 23 per cent of Albertans received their shots.
ìAlberta Health Services has ordered between 1.1 and 1.2 million doses of influenza vaccine,î said Alberta Health Minister Fred Horne. ìOnce we utilize all our vaccine, close to 28 per cent of Albertans will be protected. Actually, we received the last shipment of vaccine in the world yesterday from Italy, a tribute to Dr. Talbot's team diligence.î
Free flu shots are no longer available to Albertans at Alberta Health Services' public immunization clinics, or pharmacies and doctors' offices. As of Jan. 10 or 11 supplies of vaccine have run dry with some available only to those under the age of nine who require a second dose to protect them.
Those wishing to keep updated on flu announcements or to check on availability of second doses can check online at http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/influ/ or call the Innisfail Health Centre at 403-227-7800.
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