Alberta Health Services wants flu shots to be treated like cleaning out the gutters and raking the yard – a fall routine done out of habit.

And with a new FluMist nasal spray vaccine for those aged two to 17, along with those who have an aversion to needles, AHS officials are doing everything possible to get the message out.

“It’s a universal program, and it’s the single most effective means of protection from the flu. The virus changes every year and it can impact other underlying health problems,” Dr. James Talbot, AHS’ chief medical officer of health, said at the immunization announcement Tuesday in Edmonton.

Dr. Gerry Predy, AHS’ senior medical officer of health, said he’s talking to seniors, youth, and health care workers – the most vulnerable groups – in any way possible, including through Twitter chats and a weekly blog.

Flu shots are free for those six months of age and older starting Oct. 15.

Check albertahealthservices.ca/influenza.asp for clinic info.

Flu facts

• Last year, some 875,000 Albertans (one-quarter of the population) were immunized.
• Two A strains, similar to H1N1, and a B strain are being vaccinated against this year.