Amid an increase in influenza cases in Ontario and ongoing skepticism about vaccines, pharmacists and physicians in the province are stressing the importance of vaccination. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at Toronto General Hospital, emphasized that getting the flu shot remains the most effective way to avoid contracting the virus.
While the flu season is commencing in Ontario, some regions in the Southern Hemisphere have already witnessed a higher-than-average incidence of cases for the second consecutive year. This trend overseas, marked by a surge in cases and an early onset of the season in certain areas like Asia and the U.K., could foreshadow the situation in Canada as winter approaches.
Recent data from Public Health Ontario revealed that nearly two percent of influenza tests conducted from October 26 to November 1 returned positive results, indicating an increase compared to the previous week. The agency anticipates a further rise in cases in November, particularly among children.
Despite these developments, doubts and indifference towards vaccinations persist among the public. Sandra Hanna, a Toronto pharmacist and CEO of the Neighbourhood Pharmacist Association of Canada, attributed this hesitancy to the prolonged focus on vaccines, notably in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hanna emphasized the importance of reinstating the perception of vaccination as a routine measure for individual and collective well-being.
Additionally, concerns have arisen regarding a new strain of influenza A, H3N2, which is known for causing severe infections, particularly in older individuals. Some experts have raised alarms about the strain possibly not aligning well with the current flu shot, potentially reducing its efficacy. However, Dr. Bogoch clarified that while a mismatch may lower the vaccine’s effectiveness, it still offers some level of protection against influenza.
To aid in vaccination efforts, over 265 first-year Doctor of Pharmacy students from the University of Toronto’s Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy will assist in administering flu shots at local pharmacies starting in November. Program director Natalie Crown highlighted the growing trend of Canadians opting for pharmacy-based vaccinations due to convenience. Crown noted the students’ enthusiasm for hands-on experience and the positive reception from pharmacists receiving their assistance.
Overall, the push for flu vaccination continues in Ontario amid rising cases and concerns over vaccine efficacy, underscoring the crucial role of immunization in safeguarding public health.