10 frequently asked questions about the flu vaccine

Every year, the arrival of flu season raises many questions about vaccination. The flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones, but it’s normal to want to know more before making an appointment.

This article answers your most frequently asked questions to help you better understand the importance of the flu vaccination and make an informed choice for your health and that of your loved ones. The vaccination campaign starts on October 26, 2024, so don’t wait to make an appointment!

1. Why get vaccinated every year?
2. When to get the 2024 flu vaccine?
3. Who should be vaccinated?
4. Is it safe for pregnant women?
5. How effective is the vaccine?
6. Are there any side effects?
7. Does it protect against COVID?
8. Should I be vaccinated if I’ve already had flu?
9. How much does the vaccine cost?
10. Where can I get vaccinated?

1. Why do you need to be vaccinated every year?

Strains of the flu virus are constantly evolving, which means that the 2023 vaccine may not be effective in 2024. For this reason, the seasonal flu vaccine is updated annually to match the virus strains that are most likely to circulate during the season.

In addition, the protection you get from the flu shot decreases over time. An annual vaccination helps prepare your immune system to fight off new strains of the virus.

Getting vaccinated against influenza is a simple and effective way to prevent serious complications from this disease. As well as protecting your own health, you will also be contributing to public health by reducing the spread of the virus.

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2. When to get the 2024 flu vaccine?

Autumn is the best time to get vaccinated. This year, the vaccination campaign starts on October 26, 2024.

You can get the flu shot throughout the season, but it’s a good idea not to wait too long. An appointment at the beginning of the season offers you optimal protection. Getting vaccinated as soon as possible, gives your body time to build antibodies before the virus is widespread.

If you’re wondering if it’s too late to get vaccinated, you should know that this it’s not the case as long as the flu is circulating.

3. Who can get vaccinated against the flu?

Anyone aged six months or over can receive the flu vaccine. It is particularly recommended for groups at risk of serious complications: people over 75 years of age, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease.

The vaccine has not been proven to be effective in babies. However, people in contact with children under 6 months of age may be vaccinated to protect them. The vaccine may also be recommended to health care workers or people in contact with at-risk individuals.

If you are wondering about contraindications, they are rare, but if you have any doubts (e.g. in the case of severe allergies), consult an ELNA professional before getting vaccinated.

4. Is vaccination safe for pregnant women?

Yes, the flu vaccine is not only safe, but it is also highly recommended from 13 weeks of pregnancy. Pregnant women are at increased risk of influenza-related complications, including respiratory tract infections and miscarriage.

Vaccination during pregnancy not only protects the mother, but also the baby during the first months of life. The vaccine is preferably given at the beginning of the flu season, but it can be given at any time in case of chronic illness. It is also safe for breastfeeding women.

5. How effective is the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is an effective vaccine. Its effectiveness may vary from season to season, depending on the strains of the virus in circulation, and depending on the age and health status of the person receiving it.

It is important to note that while the vaccine does not provide 100% protection, it does significantly reduce the risk of developing a severe form of the influenza. Studies show that vaccination reduces serious complications, especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases.

The vaccine stimulates your immune system so that it is ready to fight the flu virus as soon as it comes into contact with your body. In general, the flu vaccine is effective two weeks after the injection and its protection lasts more than 6 months.

6. Do flu shots have side effects?

The flu vaccine is generally well tolerated. However, like all vaccines, it may cause mild and temporary side effects in some patients. The most common include mild pain or redness at the injection site, mild fever, or body aches. These symptoms usually disappear within one or two days.

Serious side effects are extremely rare. If you experience unusual or persistent symptoms after vaccination, make an appointment with an ELNA healthcare professional.

7. Does the influenza vaccine protect against COVID-19 or other respiratory viruses?

No, the flu vaccine does not protect you against other viruses such as COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, it helps prevent severe flu-related complications that could overwhelm healthcare systems, especially during periods when COVID-19 and RSV cases are on the rise. While the flu and COVID-19 share some symptoms, they are caused by different viruses, and each vaccine is specific to the virus it targets.

Note that your flu shot can be given at the same time as other vaccines. Check your vaccination record or consult the Canadian Immunization Guide.

8. Should I get vaccinated if I have already had the flu this year?

Even if you have already contracted the flu this year, it is still recommended that you get vaccinated. This is because several strains of the virus circulate each year, and it is possible to be infected with a different strain from the one you have already had. Vaccination provides additional protection against other strains and reduces the risk of complications.

9. How much does the flu vaccine cost in Quebec?

The influenza vaccine is covered by the RAMQ when it is administered by the public health system. It is therefore free of charge for everyone aged 6 months and over.

Some private medical laboratories and clinics, such as those at ELNA, offer same-day appointments with no waiting list. In the private sector, the price of vaccination can vary, but it is affordable and can be covered by your private insurance company. Find out more before making an appointment.

10. Where can I get vaccinated?

In Quebec, you can make an appointment at various health centres affiliated with the RAMQ, such as CLSCs, certain medical clinics and pharmacies.

If you opt for the private healthcare system, you can be vaccinated at one of our private laboratories CDL Laboratories in the Montreal area (Decarie Square, Dollard-des-Ormeaux and at the Brunswick Medical Center). No medical referral is required.

You can also book an appointment at a private clinic in the ELNA Medical network, where waiting times are generally short.

For more information on the flu vaccine, don’t hesitate to contact an ELNA healthcare professional.