Andre Corriveau, the territory's acting chief public health officer, still remembers when he got the flu back in 1982. 

"I was sick for a good 10 days and I promised myself that I would never get it again," he said.

From that point, Corriveau said he's been getting the flu shot every year. On Nov. 5, he kept his streak going, as he got both his flu and Covid vaccine at the Centre Square Mall. While it's possible he could still get sick, he fared better more recently. 

"Last time I was sick, well, I did my first episode of Covid about six months ago," said Corriveau, noting that it was a mild experience. "I've been getting the regular [Covid] boosters since the beginning, so it was just a two, three day thing."

Corriveau said that last year saw a lower turnout that expected for vaccinations in Yellowknife. But, for high-risks groups, such as seniors, the participation rates have always been strong, he said.

"Above 50 per cent of people who are in the high-risk groups, and the other population, it's probably closer to 20, 25 per cent," said Corriveau.

There hasn't been a high number of flu cases so far this year, he noted, but that could change with holidays soon approaching.

"Typically in the Northwest Territories, and across Canada, outbreaks begin after the Christmas party season," he said, noting the mix of travel and large gatherings. "January is a high peak month."

Another spike typically occurs after March break too, he added.

Walk-ins at the Centre Square Mall began on Friday, Nov. 5, and will continue until Nov. 16. They're open Tuesday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.