2023-11-03 10:35:52
In most of Canada, you can feel a chill in the air. The change in season, bringing with it a change in health risks, ushered in the cold and flu season. After three difficult winters, marked by respiratory diseases dominating the headlines and filling hospitals, doctors hope that this one will be calmer.
“I think we’re all a little worried following seeing what happened last year, when we experienced a spike in flu, COVID and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at the same time. That being said, this year I don’t think we necessarily expected the same thing,” said Dr. Gerald Evans, chair of the division of infectious diseases at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.
This text is a translation ofan article from CTV News.
Although an early flu season is predicted, indicators from the southern hemisphere show it may not be as severe. However, as cases of COVID-19 and RSV begin to rise, medical experts are urging people to update their vaccinations, especially those over 60 and those with underlying health conditions. Older people are at the greatest risk of serious outcomes and health problems, and doctors say vaccines are a critical tool in avoiding illness this year.
“It’s not just the respiratory components of these infections that harm people. These viruses also cause other problems, including heart diseases such as heart attacks, heart failure,” explained Dr. Evans.
There are now four main vaccines available to seniors in Canada this fall, each targeting a virus or bacteria of concern that has historically led to increased hospitalizations and deaths among the vulnerable population.
Vaccines doctors are encouraging people to consider cover COVID-19, flu, bacterial pneumonia and RSV, approved by Health Canada this summer.
COVID-19 and flu vaccines are free and available at most doctor’s offices, pharmacies and public health units, depending on where you live.
Pneumonia vaccines may require a fee, depending on the product and province. There are two types of vaccines to protect once morest pneumococcal disease. Most provinces cover some form of immunization for certain demographics, age groups and health conditions, while another form of the vaccine can be purchased. For example, British Columbia covers both forms, according to its vaccination website. In contrast, the Alberta Health Services website shows vaccines available for purchase that protect once morest many strains.
The RSV vaccine, recently approved by Health Canada in August, is not free. Most seniors across the country will have to pay for the vaccine. Although the federal government approved the new vaccine in August, it is up to the provinces to decide whether they will cover the costs of the vaccine and how it will be administered.
“The current challenge, of course, is that these vaccines are new. We are waiting for recommendations from all provinces to obtain funding,” said Dr Evans. “At the moment, the RSV vaccine is not publicly funded, so you have to buy it to get it, which will likely impact people’s ability to get it early in the year. ‘autumn.”
The province of Ontario has agreed to cover the RSV vaccine(opens in a new tab), but only for people aged 60 and older who live in long-term care facilities or certain homes of retirement.
New RSV vaccine(opens in new tab) shows high effectiveness of more than 82% in preventing lower respiratory tract diseases in older adults and more than 94% in people with chronic diseases underlying.
With so many vaccines available to Canadians, it’s understandable that most people feel confused regarding vaccinations. Medical experts urge people to consult their doctor or pharmacist for clarification.
“They will help you navigate the maze of all these viruses, knowing if you are at risk, if you are not, and what you should take. It all starts with a dialogue. Now that we are entering respiratory illness season, it’s a good time to have this discussion,” said Kyro Maseh, pharmacist at Rylander Pharmacy in Toronto.
Mr Maseh says vaccine uptake and general awareness have been good so far this season.
“We have seen what happens when respiratory illnesses get out of control and the effect it has on overall hospital capacity. We saw it last winter,” Maseh said, adding that many people are turning to vaccines to protect themselves and their communities.
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