The government of Quebec announces that the influenza vaccination will now be free for all Quebecers who wish to take advantage of it, starting this Friday.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services explains that its decision was made after consultations were held with Public Health.
Authorities are finding that viral illnesses are causing heavy traffic in emergency departments. In addition, the marked growth of influenza, the presence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the still significant presence of COVID-19, combined with the imminent arrival of the holiday season, justify expanding access to the influenza vaccine, in their opinion.
The ministry urges families with children under six months of age and healthcare workers to get vaccinated without delay. The same is true for people most at risk: those over the age of 60, those with chronic illnesses, immunocompromised people, pregnant women in the second and third trimesters of their pregnancy, as well as people who live under the same roof as the previous persons as well as the caregivers.
Three weeks ago, Public Health estimated that around half a million Quebecers who had not been infected and with an outdated vaccination were at risk. She then reiterated the importance of having an up-to-date vaccination against COVID-19 and for more vulnerable clienteles to get a dose of influenza vaccine.
The authorities warn that the extension of free vaccination is exceptional for this year and that it will be reassessed next year.
As for people who paid to be vaccinated against influenza this fall, they cannot be reimbursed.
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