Manitoba Health Official Urges Flu Vaccination Despite Mismatched Strain

Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer, Dr. Brent Roussin, is strongly encouraging residents to get vaccinated against influenza, even as concerns arise regarding the effectiveness of this year’s vaccine against the latest H3N2 strain mutation. This public health advisory comes during a period of rising flu cases in the province.

Rising Flu Cases Prompt Health Advisory

Recent data reveals a “dramatic increase” in influenza test positivity in Manitoba, primarily linked to the H3N2 subtype of the influenza A virus, according to Dr. Roussin. Since late August, there have been a total of 556 flu cases reported across the province, with 262 new cases identified in the week ending November 23. In the Prairie Mountain Health region alone, there were 111 cases, including 41 new cases during the same week.

Despite concerns about a potential mismatch between the circulating H3N2 variant and the vaccine, Dr. Roussin emphasizes the importance of vaccination. “It’s really important that the discussion about a possible mismatch shouldn’t affect anyone’s decision to receive that vaccine, because it’s still our best protection,” he stated.

Understanding Vaccine Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the influenza vaccine typically becomes clearer mid to late season as data is analyzed. The current vaccine is designed to protect against both H3N2 and H1N1 subtypes, as well as influenza B. Dr. Roussin noted that even when vaccine effectiveness against the virus is lower, it often remains effective in preventing severe illness.

“It’s predictable that we see these severe outcomes and most times when we see these severe outcomes, those are in unvaccinated people,”

he cautioned, highlighting the risks associated with influenza.

The World Health Organization (WHO) develops the influenza vaccine based on data from the southern hemisphere, which sometimes leads to mismatches when strains evolve. Dr. Roussin underscored that respiratory viruses like influenza can have significant impacts on individuals and health-care systems during this season.

In addition to influenza, Manitoba continues to monitor COVID-19, with 167 cases reported in the Prairie Mountain Health region since late August. During the week of November 23, there were 43 new cases and nine hospital admissions due to COVID-19-related illnesses.

The public health officer recommends both the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines for everyone over six months, particularly those at higher risk, such as individuals over 65 or those with underlying health conditions. “We know both these vaccines have good safety profiles and are effective at preventing severe outcomes,” Dr. Roussin affirmed.

As vaccination clinics continue to operate, public health officials encourage residents to consult with health-care providers about vaccination options. Jan Loe, director of public health services for Prairie Mountain Health, noted that although community clinics are winding down, vaccination remains a priority. “We continue to encourage vaccination and for people to talk to their local public health nurse, pharmacist, or primary care provider about options to protect themselves, their families, and communities,” she stated.

To limit the spread of respiratory viruses, public health officials recommend frequent hand washing, covering coughs, and staying home when feeling unwell. As Manitoba prepares for the ongoing flu season, the emphasis on vaccination remains pivotal in safeguarding the health of the community.