Ontario Prepares for Challenging Flu Season with Vaccination Push

Flu season has returned, and health officials in Ontario are anticipating a particularly difficult period for residents and healthcare providers alike. According to Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, president of the Ontario Medical Association, the province may face a challenging season, drawing on alarming statistics from Australia. The country recently reported over 410,000 laboratory-confirmed flu cases, surpassing the previous high of 365,000 in 2024. This surge has prompted health authorities to issue a “wake-up call” concerning the importance of increasing vaccination rates.

In response, the Ontario Ministry of Health has announced that free flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available to the public. Dr. Abdurrahman emphasizes that both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone, with availability at pharmacies, public health units, and family doctors. Individuals aged six months and older can receive the COVID-19 vaccine either simultaneously with or at any time before or after the flu shot. However, children under two years old cannot receive a flu shot at pharmacies but can obtain it from a doctor, nurse practitioner, or local public health unit.

As the flu season approaches, the impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) also looms, particularly for young children and older adults. Vaccination against RSV is available for adults aged 75 and older, high-risk adults between 60 and 74, and high-risk children up to 24 months of age. Pregnant individuals are also encouraged to get vaccinated.

Dr. Abdurrahman notes that while it is considered unusual, it is possible to contract influenza, COVID-19, and RSV simultaneously. She explained, “You can have multiple viruses infect you at the same time. When you’re fighting one virus, you’re actually a lot more susceptible to other viruses because your immune system is already weakened.” For instance, individuals recovering from a COVID-19 infection may be more vulnerable to influenza.

The importance of vaccination cannot be overstated. Dr. Abdurrahman advises, “That’s why it’s important to essentially pre-empt this by having your immune system primed against these viruses to start. Vaccines are the safest, most effective tools to prevent serious disease.”

Despite the recommendations, some individuals may express vaccine hesitancy. Dr. Abdurrahman acknowledges this concern, stating, “We understand that some people may have questions or concerns about vaccines.” She encourages open dialogue with healthcare professionals to obtain clear, evidence-based information.

Annual flu shots are generally recommended, but some patients may experience allergic reactions, such as swelling or feeling unwell, which could deter them from getting vaccinated. In such cases, consulting with an allergist can provide solutions. Dr. Abdurrahman specializes in vaccine allergies and explains that allergists can safely revaccinate patients who have previously experienced reactions by administering small, incremental amounts of the vaccine.

The science is clear: vaccines save lives. Dr. Abdurrahman reassures, “It’s OK to have questions or want to be able to talk through what your concerns are.”

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that individuals receive the most recent formulation of the COVID-19 vaccine in the fall, as it is expected to provide a better immune response against currently circulating COVID-19 strains.

Higher-risk groups, including hospitalized patients, long-term care residents and staff, and individuals over 65 years old, are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from both COVID-19 and influenza. As Ontario braces for a challenging flu season, vaccination remains a crucial tool in safeguarding public health.