AHS and Olds Grizzlys team up to shut-out influenza

OLDS – Influenza is in Alberta and it’s serious. Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Olds Grizzlys care about the health of the community and are partnering to share facts about the importance of immunization.

“We would like everyone to stay healthy this holiday season,” says Dr. Mohammed Mosli, Medical Officer of Health Central Zone. “We have seen 230 confirmed cases of influenza in Central Zone already this season. Without immunization, everyone is at risk.”

Each year, Influenza causes more emergency department visits than heart attacks and strokes, not to mention significant downtime from work and leisure activities.

“No one likes getting sick and having to sit on the sidelines,” says Grizzlys captain Chase Olsen. “As role models, it’s important for us to share this message and encourage everyone to do their part to help shut out influenza and get immunized.”

AHS offers influenza immunization, free of charge, to all Albertans six months of age and older, the vaccine will be available at hundreds of Alberta Health Services (AHS) public influenza immunization clinics, as well as at many pharmacists and physician offices around the province.

“Remember, no one is naturally immune to influenza,” says Dr. Mosli. “Please don’t take the risk. Influenza can be one less thing we battle this winter. For yourself, and your loved ones, start the new year off healthy and ensure you stay healthy by getting immunized.”

For more information, including local clinic schedules, visit ahs.ca/influenza or call
Health Link at 811.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four 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.

- 30 -