Newfoundland and Labrador’s top health official, Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, is advising residents to receive a flu vaccination before the holiday season. She mentioned that flu cases have started early across Canada, with only 20% of eligible individuals in the province having been vaccinated so far. Typically, the peak flu season in the region occurs after Christmas, usually in late January.
Recent reports of a rise in influenza cases among school-aged children in Ontario, resulting in several deaths, have raised concerns among medical professionals. The call for vaccinations extends to all age groups as experts anticipate a surge in infections. Vulnerable groups include seniors and children aged five to nine, who are at higher risk from the flu.
Dr. Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of preventing severe flu illnesses, especially in children, following the unfortunate deaths reported in Ontario. Currently, the vaccination rate among children in Newfoundland and Labrador is below 10%. Federal data indicates a significant number of positive influenza tests, particularly among individuals aged 19 and below.
Last year marked the province’s worst flu season, with over 2,000 confirmed cases and 743 hospitalizations recorded. This year’s trivalent flu shot can protect against three different virus strains. Dr. Fitzgerald assured that while the vaccine may cause mild side effects for a few days, it is crucial for building immunity against the flu.
Highlighting the severity of the flu, Dr. Fitzgerald stressed that the infection can lead to high fevers and prolonged illness, beyond just mild symptoms. Public health authorities are urging everyone aged six months and above to get vaccinated promptly to safeguard against the flu virus.