The return of cool weather is generally associated with a higher spread of viruses and several experts predict that the flu will hit earlier and harder this year.
Since we anticipate more intense influenza activity than that observed in the past five years, the influenza vaccination campaign begins earlier this fall.
Indeed, as the health measures linked to the pandemic have limited our contact with viruses, our immune defense has been weakened, which puts us at greater risk of contracting the flu. This is all the more true for the most vulnerable groups.
Additionally, there has been a record spike in flu cases in Australia during its winter season, suggesting to medical professionals that we may be facing the same situation.
Getting vaccinated: the best way to protect yourself
The whole population is invited to take up the sleeve, and especially the groups most at risk of presenting complications for which the vaccine is offered free of charge.
These include people aged 75 and over. However, age is not the only risk factor for serious complications. Pregnant women and people with certain chronic diseases such as heart and lung disorders, diabetes, cancer or immune deficiency are also considered to be at risk of developing complications that could lead to hospitalization.
At Pharmaprix, pharmacist-owners and their teams are mobilizing to offer a simple, fast and safe vaccination campaign. You can also take advantage of your appointment to discuss with your pharmacist to ensure that your vaccines against COVID-19 and pneumonia are up to date. According to the Comité sur l’immunisation du Québec, vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu can be administered at the same time without causing serious adverse effects.
3 MYTHS TO EXPOSE ABOUT THE FLU VACCINE
It is important to set the record straight regarding some of the ideas circulating about influenza vaccination.
1. “I’m young and healthy, so I don’t need the vaccine.”
FAKE. Anyone can get the flu, whether you are healthy or not. However, the risk of complications and death is higher for the most vulnerable people.
2. “I’m already vaccinated against COVID-19, so I should be fine.”
FAKE. The COVID-19 vaccine does not protect against the flu. Only the influenza vaccine, available each season and formulated with the four strains anticipated during this period, represents your best defense.
3. “The effectiveness of flu vaccines is not proven. So I take the risk.”
FAKE. The flu vaccine can prevent 70-90% of cases when it contains the strains that spread during the season.
The flu vaccination campaign starts now. Protect yourself as soon as possible by making an appointment to get vaccinated today at your pharmacist-owner affiliated with Pharmaprix.