Alberta Health Services (AHS) offers a wide range of vaccines to protect individuals against various diseases and infections. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting public health. In this article, we will explore the different types of vaccines offered by AHS and their importance in maintaining a healthy community.
Vaccines for Children and Adolescents
AHS provides vaccines for children and adolescents to protect them against serious diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and meningitis. The routine immunization schedule for children in Alberta includes vaccines such as:
- DTaP-IPV-Hib (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type b)
- MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- MenACWY (meningococcal conjugate)
- HPV (human papillomavirus)
These vaccines are administered at various stages of a child’s development, from infancy to adolescence, to provide long-term protection against serious diseases.
Vaccines for Adults
AHS also offers vaccines for adults to protect them against diseases such as influenza, pneumococcal disease, and shingles. Adults may require booster shots to maintain their immunity against certain diseases, such as tetanus and diphtheria. Additionally, AHS recommends that adults receive the following vaccines:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
- Shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine
These vaccines are especially important for adults who are at high risk of complications from infectious diseases, such as older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions.
| Vaccine | Recommended Age Group |
|---|---|
| DTaP-IPV-Hib | 2 months to 6 years |
| MMR | 12 months to 12 years |
| Varicella | 12 months to 12 years |
| MenACWY | 12 years and older |
| HPV | 9 years to 26 years |
| Influenza | 6 months and older |
| Pneumococcal conjugate | 65 years and older |
| Shingles | 50 years and older |
| Tdap | 14 years and older |
Specialized Vaccines
AHS also offers specialized vaccines for individuals who are at high risk of certain diseases, such as:
- Hepatitis A and B vaccines for individuals who work with blood or bodily fluids, or who travel to areas with high rates of hepatitis
- Rabies vaccine for individuals who work with animals or who travel to areas with high rates of rabies
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine for individuals who are at high risk of meningitis, such as college students or military personnel
These vaccines are available through AHS’s immunization clinics and can be administered by a healthcare provider.
Travel Vaccines
If you’re planning to travel outside of Canada, AHS recommends that you consult with a healthcare provider to determine the necessary vaccines and medications for your destination. Some common travel vaccines include:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Rabies
- Yellow fever
It’s essential to research the recommended vaccines and medications for your destination and to consult with a healthcare provider at least 6 weeks prior to travel.
What vaccines are recommended for children in Alberta?
+The routine immunization schedule for children in Alberta includes vaccines such as DTaP-IPV-Hib, MMR, Varicella, MenACWY, and HPV. These vaccines are administered at various stages of a child's development to provide long-term protection against serious diseases.
Do I need to get vaccinated against influenza every year?
+Yes, the influenza vaccine is recommended annually for individuals 6 months and older. The flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common strains of the flu virus, so it's essential to get vaccinated every year to maintain protection.
How do I know which vaccines I need?
+Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine schedule for your individual needs. They will assess your medical history, age, and other factors to recommend the necessary vaccines and medications.
In conclusion, Alberta Health Services offers a wide range of vaccines to protect individuals against various diseases and infections. By staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, individuals can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and maintain a healthy community. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine schedule for your individual needs and to ensure you’re protected against serious diseases.
