Alberta faces potentially severe flu season as vaccination rates drop

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Remembrance Day brought thousands of Calgarians out to honour those who served, with veterans saying the turnout proved their sacrifices weren't in vain. As we move past the commemorations, attention turns to what's ahead this winter—from a potentially tough flu season to ongoing debates about housing affordability and workers' rights. Here's what's happening in Calgary this week.

👀 In today's edition:

• Veterans reflect on strong Remembrance Day turnout

• Health experts warn of a challenging flu season ahead

• Half of Albertans oppose government's use of notwithstanding clause

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Alberta faces potentially severe flu season as vaccination rates drop

Alberta has recorded its first influenza death of the season, and health experts are warning the province could face a rough few months ahead. A person in their 60s from central Alberta died from the flu, with more than 100 people hospitalized so far this season and eight in intensive care.

The dominant strain this year is H3N2, which caused serious illness in Australia and the United Kingdom and often predicts what's coming to North America. Dr. Craig Jenne, an infectious disease expert at the University of Calgary, told CityNews that declining vaccination rates combined with a vaccine that doesn't perfectly match the mutated strain could create a "perfect storm" for hospitals. Health experts say the vaccine still protects against multiple strains and reduces severe illness, but only about 10 per cent of Albertans have gotten their flu shot so far.

Former chief medical officer Dr. James Talbot told CTV News that Alberta hospitals already run at full capacity, meaning it won't take many respiratory cases to overwhelm the system. Some Calgarians have struggled to access flu shots, with one mother saying she had to book appointments at three different locations just to vaccinate her four children.

Need to know

🎖️ Veterans say they were moved by the thousands of Calgarians who turned out for Remembrance Day ceremonies on a sunny Tuesday, with one saying the strong attendance proves their sacrifices "wasn't for nothing."

🚒 First responders and veterans in Alberta are facing delayed care and claim denials despite legislation guaranteeing PTSD treatment, with an advocacy group saying workers are being forced back on the job before they're ready.

✈️ McKnight Boulevard honours William McKnight, a Calgary-raised Second World War flying ace who shot down 17 German planes and became Canada's highest-scoring pilot during the Battle of Britain before disappearing over the English Channel at age 23.

🏠 A CityNews poll shows 71 per cent of Calgary renters believe they'll never be able to afford a home, with two-thirds of residents rating housing affordability as bad or terrible in the city.

📊 A Leger poll found half of Albertans oppose the government's use of the notwithstanding clause to end the teachers' strike, with 42 per cent saying the teachers' association handled the dispute better than the province.

⚡ United Conservative Party members will debate policy proposals at their annual meeting later this month, including bringing back coal-powered electricity, restricting flags on public property, and making temporary residents pay for health care.

😴 Cooking When Fatigued (Meals for Low Energy Days) Nov 26 - Learn strategies in the kitchen to support eating well, despite living with fatigue. (Free online class led by AHS Registered Dietitian and Occupational Therapist)*

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Saxophonist Perpie brings new concert blending jazz, storytelling to Calgary

Multi-award-winning saxophonist and composer Perpetual Awele Atife, known as Perpie, is presenting Roots in Motion: A JazzTale Project at Grace Presbyterian Church this month. The immersive concert blends jazz, Western classical and African musical traditions with poetry and storytelling, exploring themes of love, community and hope. Perpie & her One Village Orchestra will perform exclusive new compositions that will later be recorded for her upcoming album.

Perpie has become one of Calgary's leading live music artists, known for sold-out performances at venues including the Canadian Jazz Festival and Studio Bell Performance Hall. Her previous concert series, Ije Live, ran successfully in Canada and the UK from 2021 to 2024. The saxophonist says her work centres on community and creating spaces where healing can happen through art.

The recipient of multiple honours including the YYC Music Award for Jazz Recording of the Year and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, Perpie fuses jazz, soul, classical and African indigenous traditions in her compositions. Her sound draws from influences ranging from Fela Kuti to Dolly Parton, shaped by African folk and gospel traditions that she views through a modern lens.

Where to eat and drink

🍴 Blue Star Diner: This neighbourhood spot sources from local farmers to put fresh twists on classic diner fare, mixing traditional comfort food with surprising vegan dishes and creative takes on old favourites from 8 a.m. daily.

🍴 Trolley 5 Brewpub: Named after the historic No. 5 Trolley Line that once ran through the Beltline, this 17th Avenue brewpub serves award-winning craft beers like their gold medal-winning Turntable Lager alongside elevated pub food.

Have a food or drink suggestion? Message us and we might share it!

Things to do

🎟️ YYC Noodle Festival: Calgary restaurants are competing for noodle supremacy until November 16, with food lovers collecting passport stamps at participating spots for a chance to win a $600 grand prize pack while slurping their way through the city's best bowls.

🎟️ Zoolights: The Calgary Zoo transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland from November 14 to January 4 with themed light displays, visits with Santa, axe throwing, free carousel rides, and festive feasts, now in its 29th season.

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