Flu Shots: Protection for Kids, Seniors & Lung Conditions
Flu Shot Rollout Begins in Ontario, Canada-Wide Campaigns Follow
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ontario initiates its annual influenza vaccination programme, with other provinces and territories set to follow suit in mid-October. A recent Canadian study highlights the potential severity of the flu, even in children.
Ontario’s Vaccination schedule
Starting this week, Ontario will offer flu shots to seniors, residents of long-term care facilities, hospital staff, and patients.The vaccine will become available to all other residents aged six months and older on October 27th.
Most other Canadian provinces and territories are planning to launch their influenza vaccination programs around mid-October.
Study Highlights Flu’s Potential Severity
A recent Canadian study, utilizing data from the IMPACT surveillance network encompassing 12 pediatric hospitals, underscores that influenza is more than a common cold. Researchers found that the flu can lead to serious complications, including hospitalization and, in rare cases, death.
Only one in four patients included in the study had received a flu vaccination.
Dr. Netisha Gupta of the Lung health Foundation emphasizes the importance of vaccination, notably for vulnerable populations like young children and seniors.
“Fortunately, mortality due to influenza in children is infrequent. But on the flip side, it is also possibly preventable,” Dr. Gupta said.
“One of the take-home messages of the study is that the flu is not just another benign cold-like illness, that it can have serious complications that can lead to hospitalization, but also can even lead to death.”
impact of the IMPACT Surveillance Network
The study’s findings are based on data collected through the IMPACT surveillance network, a collaborative effort involving 12 pediatric hospitals across Canada. This network plays a vital role in monitoring the impact of respiratory viruses on children and informing public health strategies.