The province’s H1N1 response is in full flight after a bumpy start. Long lines and outcries against a lack of priority marred the first few days of vaccinations. After Premier Ed Stelmach called for understanding, Health minister Ron Liepert issued an apology for the lack of preparedness shown in the issuance of the vaccine. The speed of the approval of the vaccine caught the province off guard, and health officials have struggled to get the message out about H1N1. This has left many weary of the flu vaccine. A recent poll conducted on The Fitzhugh website saw those who didn’t plan to get the vaccine outnumber those who did by a two-to-one margin. While some have personal reasons for refusing the vaccine, be it health concerns or doubt in flu vaccines, it’s peculiar that so many turn down a free shot that most of the world is clamouring for. The government has spent billions securing the vaccine that it feels is the best way to protect oneself against this global pandemic. So why are so many shunning it?

The response from the public is understandable. As nearly 100 deaths across the country have been attributed to H1N1, there is a legitimate fear of the potential consequences. H1N1 affects healthy people just as easily as it affects those with weakened immune systems, and at this point, there is little indication about what allows the flu to turn fatal for some.

Jasperites must remain diligent to prevent the spread of the flu. Life in a tourist town means frequent illnesses flow through the town’s borders, and H1N1 is no different. The town is prepared with their influenza response plan, and is encouraging those exhibiting signs of illness to stay at home and avoid contact with others. Frequent hand washing is a necessity, and according to fire chief Greg Van Tighem, touching one’s face should also be minimized.

There is still another five weeks left in this wave of H1N1 in the province. Citizens should continue to wash their hands frequently and if they are sick with flu-like symptoms, stay at home for seven days. Every year there is a new strain of the flu, which seems to be more virulent than the last. However such illnesses have been weathered in the past, and with the proper amount of respect, it can be beaten once again.

Safe for Halloween

Halloween is once upon us and judging by the appearance of the town, Jasper is embracing the holiday full bore. Orange, black and red are prevalent throughout the town, and the quaint mountain village has its own Sleepy Hollow vibe this time of year.

It’s important each year to remind motorists to be careful of the trick or treaters on the road every Halloween to avoid unwanted instances. Jasper’s zombie walk last Saturday was nearly spoiled due to an altercation between a driver and a member of the undead. Let’s keep it safe and spooky this year.