Mediaplanet sat down with Dr. Vivien Brown, a Toronto-based family physician, to learn more about ways that Canadians can keep safe this flu season.
Why should Canadians get the flu shot this season?
We’ve all learned how important it is to reduce the risk of viral infections. With the flu shot, we reduce risk so that even if we do get the flu, it will be mild, and we won’t need hospitalization, the ICU, or ventilation. This is so important as the risk of exposure to COVID-19 continues. So yes, get immunized for both COVID-19 and the flu.
What are some ways in which Canadians can protect themselves from the flu?
As always, immunization is the first line of defence. But last year, we saw the value of hand-washing, masks, and keeping a safe distance. So, what works for COVID-19 also works for the flu.
Who should not receive the flu shot?
We cannot immunize babies under six months of age, as well as people who have had reactions in the past. Those numbers are small, but that makes it even more important for the rest of us to be immunized and to protect those other people by decreasing the risk of exposure.
Many are saying this flu season will be significantly worse than last year’s. Why is this the case?
Well, we saw very few cases of influenza last year. That means very few people have built natural immunity to last year’s variant. As variants may be similar, going into this year’s flu season, we’re not protected — we don’t have any advantage from last year. Bottom line, with our population aging and managing many chronic diseases such as diabetes and asthma, let’s protect ourselves, our families, and each other by decreasing influenza in the community. We all will benefit.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Right now!
