You’re being encouraged to get your flu shot.

Starting on Monday, the vaccine is available at participating pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and clinics for those five years and older.

Residents are encouraged to call ahead to see if their pharmacy, doctor’s office, or clinic is providing the shots.

Families with children between the ages of six months and five years can pre-book an appointment through Alberta Health Services’ online booking tool.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, says this won’t help against COVID-19 but will lower the risk of two viruses spreading across the province.

“The more we can avoid influenza-related tests, emergency visits & hospitalizations, the stronger our system will be to support those with COVID-19.”

During the 2019-20 flu season, there were over 8,400 cases across the province.

Around 1,500 needed to be hospitalized with 39 passing away from the virus. Three of the deaths were in the north zone which includes the RMWB.

All of these numbers were increases from the 2018-19 flu season. However, the COVID-19 measures helped slow the spread of influenza early during the pandemic.