Newfoundland and Labrador’s top public health official urges the public to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19 to help reduce case numbers this season. Dr. Janice Fitzgerald highlighted the significant impact of last year’s flu season, which saw over 2,000 lab-confirmed cases and 743 hospitalizations, the highest on record.
Statistics show that 7 out of 10 individuals hospitalized with the flu in Newfoundland and Labrador last year had not received the flu vaccine, with the majority being over 65 years old. Dr. Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing severe flu outbreaks this year.
This season’s flu shot is trivalent, providing protection against three strains of the virus. While the vaccination rate for seniors was around 50% last year, Dr. Fitzgerald stated that ideally, it should reach 80%. Vaccination is especially crucial for children aged six months to five years, seniors, and high-risk individuals, such as pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.
In addition to influenza, Dr. Fitzgerald stressed the need for COVID-19 vaccination. Last year, there were 1,500 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the province, leading to 112 hospitalizations, predominantly among seniors. She highlighted that vaccination could have prevented a significant number of those hospitalizations.
Both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered simultaneously. Vaccinations for both illnesses are free and accessible, with appointments available online through Public Health or at pharmacies and primary care providers. The goal is to maintain herd immunity by increasing vaccination rates and preventing the spread of these viruses.
Pharmacist and assistant professor Saniya Alwani emphasized the importance of individual responsibility in achieving community immunity. Alwani stated that widespread vaccination is crucial in halting person-to-person transmission, protecting both individuals and the community.
It is crucial for individuals, especially those at higher risk, to get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 to safeguard personal health and that of their loved ones.
