Flu vaccination is a responsible act that contributes to the health of the community. The nurse Mélanie Gagnon presents Health Canada’s recommendations for flu vaccination. Read our article to find out more:
For further information on the influenza virus or the flu vaccine, please contact a healthcare professional.
Why is flu vaccination essential?
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can have serious consequences, especially for vulnerable people. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its potentially serious complications, and to protect those around you.
What’s more, getting vaccinated against the flu can help reduce the burden on the healthcare system, already stretched by the pandemic of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. This helps to limit confusion between illnesses.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
In Canada1 and Quebec2, health authorities recommend annual flu vaccination for all Canadians aged six months and over. However, it is particularly crucial for high-risk individuals, such as :
- Young children
- Seniors (65 and over)
- Pregnant women
- Indigenous peoples
- People with chronic illnesses
- Healthcare workers
When to get vaccinated against the flu?
The flu vaccination campaign generally begins in autumn. It’s advisable to get vaccinated as soon as possible to ensure optimum protection before the start of the flu season, which generally peaks in winter. However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated, even during the flu season.
As the virus can evolve from one year to the next, the vaccine you have received may no longer be effective the following year. We therefore recommend that you get vaccinated every year.
Where to get vaccinated?
At ELNA Medical, we facilitate access to flu vaccination in the Montreal and Quebec City regions. Our medical clinics are equipped to give the vaccine safely and effectively.
It’s possible to get vaccinated at a RAMQ-affiliated clinic. If you need an appointment more quickly, you can go through a private clinic.
Sources | 1: Canada Flu (influenza) | 2: Quebec Health – Flu vaccination
