The H1N1 Influenza vaccine is now available in Alberta and the distribution schedule for the southern Alberta area has been announced.

Once again, Alberta Health Services has mandated that flu shots be administered only at public mass venue sites, meaning the University of Lethbridge cannot provide H1N1 flu shots for its students, staff and faculty. Those persons wishing to receive the H1N1 vaccine will have to attend one of the free mass venue locations.

For the Lethbridge area, H1N1 shots will be administered at Lethbridge Exhibition Park (West Pavilion) on Tuesday, Oct. 27 and Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. daily. For all other areas, check out the Alberta Health Services Immunization link for clinic times and locations.

When further dates and locations are announced, the University will be updating its H1N1 Influenza website with all the latest information. University students, staff and faculty are urged to take advantage of the free flu shots and to continue to be diligent with washing their hands, sanitizing their work areas and practicing established health protocols to limit the spread of the H1N1 virus.

Flu season is just around the corner and already there has been a significant increase in the number of flu cases in Lethbridge, particularly at educational facilities. The University has also seen a sharp increase in absences due to flu-like symptoms, underlying the need for people to continue to try and limit their exposure to the flu virus. Those who become ill with flu-like symptoms are urged to sign into the Illness Registry and to stay home.