The yearly endeavor to curb the flu virus is getting more than a shot in the arm this fall as public health officials bring in a new nasal spray to encourage more children to become vaccinated.
Flu clinics started Oct. 15, and the protective mist will be available for kids age two through five, or two through seventeen if the individuals have cardiac problems, diabetes, asthma or chronic diseases. Injections will be available, as per usual.
“We encourage people to go out there once the clinics are open to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Ifeoma Achebe, medical officer of health, for Alberta Health Services Central Zone. “Take advantage of this. It's free of charge.”
Drop in clinics will be held at the Innisfail Alliance Church Oct. 16 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Oct. 17 from 1:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., on Nov. 15 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and Nov. 16 from 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, and it become particularly active once the thermometer drops. Achebe says that's why it's so important for people to take action now.
“It's getting cold,” she said. “The influenza virus thrives more at cooler temperatures.”
It is estimated that between 4,000 and 8,000 Canadians die every year from the virus, most of whom are elderly. Many others will die from complications.
The nasal spray is created by altering the infectious agent so it is no longer destructive, and then allowing the virus to stay live, in contrast to the traditional inactivated vaccine.
“All vaccines are made with the virus,” Achebe explained. “In this case it's live but made in such a way that it's ability to cause disease have been removed.”
Vaccines work by building up the defences of the immune system so they are better able to fight off attacks. The new nasal spray is another tool in the kit of the health care system that has some really obvious benefits, Achebe said.
“It's something to add on to what we have,” she said. “You don't go through the pain of getting the needle which a lot of people would like.”
