One million and counting

Alberta Health Services has now vaccinated over one million Albertans, protecting them from the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza virus.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment in a very short period of time,” said Dr. Gerry Predy, Senior Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services. “In an average seasonal influenza vaccination campaign we will see close to 600,000 Albertans immunized between late September and March, so we have really achieved a lot since the start of the H1N1 campaign six weeks ago.”

Mass vaccination clinics continue to operate around the province to give Albertans many opportunities to protect themselves. As well, with the national vaccine shortage ended, H1N1 vaccine is now being made available to family physicians and other groups in an effort to reach as many Albertans as possible.

But while over one million have been vaccinated, it must be noted that over two million have not.

”It is extremely important that Albertans continue to come forward and be vaccinated. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from the H1N1 virus,” said Dr. Predy. “By having more people vaccinated we reduce the potential impact of the third wave of the virus. Please do your part and get vaccinated.”

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.5 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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