Fewer Albertans will be rolling up their sleeves for vaccines this fall, suggesting vaccine fatigue is stronger than ever before, according to a poll conducted by Abacus Data on behalf of the Canadian Pharmacists Association. .“The threat of respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID, are still very much a concern,” said Pharmasave veteran pharmacist and regional director of pharmacy Christine Antler in a Friday statement provided to CTV News Calgary. .“Vaccines are the most effective tools we have to help prevent illness and the spread, protecting the most vulnerable in our communities and reducing the potential strain on the healthcare system.” .Abacus Data said 40% of Albertans are uninterested in receiving the flu vaccine this year. It added Quebec (52%) was the only other province less interested in getting jabbed. .When it came to the COVID-19 vaccine, two-fifths of Albertans said they would not be getting it. .Abacus Data found 57% of Albertans are tired of the calls to be vaccinated. After several consecutive years of intense focus on vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, it said some of them “may be inclined to tune out this year.”.This poll comes after Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said on Wednesday she will consider her great health when it comes to deciding if she will take a COVID-19 booster shot. .READ MORE: WATCH: Smith deflects when asked if she will take COVID booster.“I tend to take care of my immune system,” said Smith. .“And I believe this is something I should talk about with my doctor, not media.”.The Alberta government confirmed on Thursday eligible Albertans will be able to book their annual vaccinations against fall respiratory viruses starting October 10. .READ MORE: Alberta government starts fall immunization program, including COVID.“Keeping up to date on your immunizations is an excellent way to protect yourself against the coming respiratory illness season,” said Alberta Health Minister Adriana LaGrange. .“Doing what you can to prevent severe illness will also help secure our healthcare system for those who need it most.” .The poll was conducted online among 1,650 Canadian adults between August 3 and 7. No margin of error was assigned to it.
