Join the Conversation About Influenza

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AHS' 2023 Influenza Campaign has concluded, but you can find information about immunization at ahs.ca/flu.

AHS encourages Albertans to take all available steps to protect their health and prevent the spread of illness. This includes getting immunized against preventable illnesses – including influenza.

By getting an influenza vaccine, you are protecting your own health, the health of seniors and other vulnerable people around you, and Alberta’s health system so it can provide care to those who most need it.

In addition to getting immunized, the best defense against influenza and COVID-19 viruses is to wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when sick.

Learn more about Alberta’s 2022/23 Influenza Immunization Program at ahs.ca/flu, and review the questions answered by Alberta Medical Officers of Health below.

AHS encourages Albertans to take all available steps to protect their health and prevent the spread of illness. This includes getting immunized against preventable illnesses – including influenza.

By getting an influenza vaccine, you are protecting your own health, the health of seniors and other vulnerable people around you, and Alberta’s health system so it can provide care to those who most need it.

In addition to getting immunized, the best defense against influenza and COVID-19 viruses is to wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when sick.

Learn more about Alberta’s 2022/23 Influenza Immunization Program at ahs.ca/flu, and review the questions answered by Alberta Medical Officers of Health below.

AHS' 2023 Influenza Campaign has concluded, but you can find information about immunization at ahs.ca/flu.

Post your question here and an AHS expert will provide accurate and up-to-date information. Answers provided are accurate as of the time of posting.

You can also find answers to commonly asked questions.

Please note: AHS is pleased to answer respectful questions seeking information or clarity about influenza immunization. Repetitive and disrespectful questions will not receive a response.

  • Share Thimerosal hasn't been used in vaccines for children since 2001. However, thimerosal is still used in some flu vaccines. Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children. If you are worried about thimerosal, you can ask for a flu vaccine without it. Do you use it ? (because it has mercury in it. Mercury poisoning is one of the causes of heavy metal toxicity, It can be the cause of dementia, for example,) If we do not want it. can we avoid Thimerosal preservative in the vaccine? Thank you. on Facebook Share Thimerosal hasn't been used in vaccines for children since 2001. However, thimerosal is still used in some flu vaccines. Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children. If you are worried about thimerosal, you can ask for a flu vaccine without it. Do you use it ? (because it has mercury in it. Mercury poisoning is one of the causes of heavy metal toxicity, It can be the cause of dementia, for example,) If we do not want it. can we avoid Thimerosal preservative in the vaccine? Thank you. on Twitter Share Thimerosal hasn't been used in vaccines for children since 2001. However, thimerosal is still used in some flu vaccines. Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children. If you are worried about thimerosal, you can ask for a flu vaccine without it. Do you use it ? (because it has mercury in it. Mercury poisoning is one of the causes of heavy metal toxicity, It can be the cause of dementia, for example,) If we do not want it. can we avoid Thimerosal preservative in the vaccine? Thank you. on Linkedin Email Thimerosal hasn't been used in vaccines for children since 2001. However, thimerosal is still used in some flu vaccines. Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children. If you are worried about thimerosal, you can ask for a flu vaccine without it. Do you use it ? (because it has mercury in it. Mercury poisoning is one of the causes of heavy metal toxicity, It can be the cause of dementia, for example,) If we do not want it. can we avoid Thimerosal preservative in the vaccine? Thank you. link

    Thimerosal hasn't been used in vaccines for children since 2001. However, thimerosal is still used in some flu vaccines. Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for all children. If you are worried about thimerosal, you can ask for a flu vaccine without it. Do you use it ? (because it has mercury in it. Mercury poisoning is one of the causes of heavy metal toxicity, It can be the cause of dementia, for example,) If we do not want it. can we avoid Thimerosal preservative in the vaccine? Thank you.

    Pat J asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    In Alberta, it’s common for the influenza vaccine to be administered using pre-filled single-dose needles, which do not contain thimerosal. Influenza vaccines in Alberta only contain thimerosal when they are drawn from vials that include multiple doses. Ask your vaccination provider to ensure that you are receiving a thimerosal-free dose. 

  • Share I have had 5 vaccinations, is there now a 6th booster available? on Facebook Share I have had 5 vaccinations, is there now a 6th booster available? on Twitter Share I have had 5 vaccinations, is there now a 6th booster available? on Linkedin Email I have had 5 vaccinations, is there now a 6th booster available? link

    I have had 5 vaccinations, is there now a 6th booster available?

    Christine Stuart-Smith asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.

    If you have further questions around eligibility or timing of your next vaccine, please reach out to your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.

  • Share I had a bivalent booster the end of October and we are traveling from the end of February to the end of March. Am I eligible for another booster or is it not necessary on Facebook Share I had a bivalent booster the end of October and we are traveling from the end of February to the end of March. Am I eligible for another booster or is it not necessary on Twitter Share I had a bivalent booster the end of October and we are traveling from the end of February to the end of March. Am I eligible for another booster or is it not necessary on Linkedin Email I had a bivalent booster the end of October and we are traveling from the end of February to the end of March. Am I eligible for another booster or is it not necessary link

    I had a bivalent booster the end of October and we are traveling from the end of February to the end of March. Am I eligible for another booster or is it not necessary

    Cemary asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.

    If you have further questions around eligibility or timing of your next vaccine, please reach out to your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.

  • Share If I’ve already gotten a bivalent booster, when do I qualify for a second booster shot. I already have a total of four shots on Facebook Share If I’ve already gotten a bivalent booster, when do I qualify for a second booster shot. I already have a total of four shots on Twitter Share If I’ve already gotten a bivalent booster, when do I qualify for a second booster shot. I already have a total of four shots on Linkedin Email If I’ve already gotten a bivalent booster, when do I qualify for a second booster shot. I already have a total of four shots link

    If I’ve already gotten a bivalent booster, when do I qualify for a second booster shot. I already have a total of four shots

    Jason P asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.

    If you have further questions around eligibility or timing of your next vaccine, please reach out to your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.

  • Share I am a male 80 yr old, having had my 2 shots plus a booster. Do you advise me to get another booster? on Facebook Share I am a male 80 yr old, having had my 2 shots plus a booster. Do you advise me to get another booster? on Twitter Share I am a male 80 yr old, having had my 2 shots plus a booster. Do you advise me to get another booster? on Linkedin Email I am a male 80 yr old, having had my 2 shots plus a booster. Do you advise me to get another booster? link

    I am a male 80 yr old, having had my 2 shots plus a booster. Do you advise me to get another booster?

    Lameduck71 asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.

    If you have further questions around eligibility or timing of your next vaccine, please reach out to your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.

  • Share I was wondering if you are immune compromised on a immune modulator drug when it it recommended to get another shot for covid 19. I am almost 4 months from my last shot. on Facebook Share I was wondering if you are immune compromised on a immune modulator drug when it it recommended to get another shot for covid 19. I am almost 4 months from my last shot. on Twitter Share I was wondering if you are immune compromised on a immune modulator drug when it it recommended to get another shot for covid 19. I am almost 4 months from my last shot. on Linkedin Email I was wondering if you are immune compromised on a immune modulator drug when it it recommended to get another shot for covid 19. I am almost 4 months from my last shot. link

    I was wondering if you are immune compromised on a immune modulator drug when it it recommended to get another shot for covid 19. I am almost 4 months from my last shot.

    Sherimassie asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.

    If you have further questions around eligibility or timing of your next vaccine, please reach out to your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.

  • Share I would like the Moderna Bivalent vaccine. Is that what AHS is using for its clients? on Facebook Share I would like the Moderna Bivalent vaccine. Is that what AHS is using for its clients? on Twitter Share I would like the Moderna Bivalent vaccine. Is that what AHS is using for its clients? on Linkedin Email I would like the Moderna Bivalent vaccine. Is that what AHS is using for its clients? link

    I would like the Moderna Bivalent vaccine. Is that what AHS is using for its clients?

    Pat Krukewich asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    For current available vaccines, please visit COVID-19 vaccines and records | Alberta.ca 

    Visit  ahs.ca/covidvaccine to book your vaccine.

  • Share How long after having Covid can you get the next vaccine? on Facebook Share How long after having Covid can you get the next vaccine? on Twitter Share How long after having Covid can you get the next vaccine? on Linkedin Email How long after having Covid can you get the next vaccine? link

    How long after having Covid can you get the next vaccine?

    Kara asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question. This question was already answered; for your convenience I’ve posted the answer below:

    It is recommended to wait eight weeks after a COVID-19 infection before beginning or completing a primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine.

    It is recommended to wait three months after a COVID-19 infection before getting a booster dose.

    Visit ahs.ca/covidvaccine for more information

  • Share After receiving Moderna (Spikevax) Bivalent on Sept 26/22 when can we get a booster on Facebook Share After receiving Moderna (Spikevax) Bivalent on Sept 26/22 when can we get a booster on Twitter Share After receiving Moderna (Spikevax) Bivalent on Sept 26/22 when can we get a booster on Linkedin Email After receiving Moderna (Spikevax) Bivalent on Sept 26/22 when can we get a booster link

    After receiving Moderna (Spikevax) Bivalent on Sept 26/22 when can we get a booster

    Judy Misk asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.
  • Share when is the next booster shot for Covid 19? on Facebook Share when is the next booster shot for Covid 19? on Twitter Share when is the next booster shot for Covid 19? on Linkedin Email when is the next booster shot for Covid 19? link

    when is the next booster shot for Covid 19?

    Robert asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for your question.

    Everyone 12 and older, including immunocompromised individuals, who completed any primary series (including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) or who have received any number of previous boosters can receive a booster.

    • When to book:
      • At least 5 months since the last dose or most recent COVID-19 infection.
      • A shortened interval of 3 months can be considered (for example, for individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes). However, a longer interval leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
    • How to book: Book online (pharmacy is recommended or AHS clinic) or call 811. Clinics are also available in First Nations communities.
      • Many pharmacies are also accepting walk-in appointments. If your local pharmacy is not listed in the booking system, contact them directly or find a pharmacy near you. 
      • Some community medical clinics are also offering COVID-19 vaccines and can be contacted directly.
      • Bookings for appointments less than 5 months since the last dose or most recent infection cannot be made online. In these cases you will need to call 811 or go to a pharmacy.