Alberta is halting the use of a flu vaccine following a recommendation from Health Canada.

Alberta Health says the suspension of the Agriflu vaccine is a precautionary measure, following a voluntary suspension of the vaccine in Europe, after the discovery of tiny clumps of virus particles in some batches of the vaccine.

The Agriflu flu shot will not be used until Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada work with the vaccine manufacturer Novartis to review the product for safety and effectiveness.

All public health clinics, physicians and pharmacists have been told to stop using this vaccine until a federal review is completed.

There have been no reports of any adverse affects by those who have taken the vaccine in Alberta and the suspension is precautionary.

Agriflu is one of three vaccines offered through the province’s influenza immunization campaign and accounts for 22 per cent of Alberta’s flu vaccine inventory.

Health Minister Fred Horne said while this product has been suspended, it is important for Albertans to continue to get the flu shot.