The flu season is about to descend on us and the province is again offering free flu vaccines beginning Oct. 20.

This year, health officials are hoping the vaccine will be a better match for the strains of flu that will circulate through the population. Last year's vaccine did not protect against the dominant flu strain that made people sick.

According to Alberta Health Service's summary of influenza, the 2013-14 season had a much higher incidence of flu among the 25-34 age group and children under five.

It's recommended that anyone six months of age and older get the flu shot. The province has purchased 1.8 million doses of vaccine, and health officials hope to immunize 40 per cent of the population.