Canadian seniors are eligible for four key vaccines this fall, but not all are free
CTV
In most of Canada, you can feel a chill in the air. The change in season, triggering a change in health risks, has signalled the start of the cold and flu season. After three brutal winters, with respiratory illnesses dominating the headlines and filling hospitals, doctors are hopeful this one will be calmer.
In most of Canada, you can feel a chill in the air. The change in season, triggering a change in health risks, has signalled the start of the cold and flu season. After three brutal winters, with respiratory illnesses dominating the headlines and filling hospitals, doctors are hopeful this one will be calmer.
“I think we’re all a little apprehensive after having seen what happened last year when we had influenza, COVID and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) all peaking at the same time. Having said that, this year I don’t think we’re expecting necessarily the same thing,” said Dr. Gerald Evans, chair of the division of infectious diseases at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ont.
While it is expected to be an early flu season, indicators from the southern hemisphere show it may not be as severe. But as cases of COVID-19 and RSV start to rise, medical experts are urging people to update their vaccines, especially those over 60 and with underlying health conditions. Seniors are most at risk of severe consequences and health setbacks and doctors say vaccines are a critical tool in avoiding illness this year.
“It’s not just the respiratory component of these infections that actually harms people. These viruses also precipitate other problems, including heart disease, like heart attacks, heart failure,” said Dr. Evans.
There are now four main vaccines available to seniors in Canada this fall, each targeting a troubling virus or bacteria that in the past has led to increased hospitalizations and death among the vulnerable population.
The immunizations that doctors want people to consider are ones that cover COVID-19, influenza, bacterial pneumonia and RSV, approved by Health Canada this summer.
COVID and flu shots are free and available at most doctors offices, pharmacies and public health units, depending on where you live.
