Get Vaccinated: Health Experts Warn of Severe Flu Season Ahead

As the flu season approaches, health officials are sounding the alarm about a potentially severe outbreak, particularly due to a mismatch between the prevalent flu strain and this year’s vaccine. Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, CEO and Medical Officer of Health for the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated despite these concerns.

Speaking on CTV Your Morning Live, Dr. Roumeliotis outlined the expected challenges for this flu season. Citing data from Australia, he noted that the country experienced a significant surge in severe flu cases earlier this year, which could indicate a similar trend in Canada. Notably, the H3N2 flu strain, which is associated with more severe illness, has already been observed.

Dr. Roumeliotis stresses that even with a mismatch, receiving the flu vaccine remains crucial. “It’s better to be 60 or 70 percent protected rather than zero percent protected,” he stated, urging individuals to get their flu shot. He acknowledged that breakthrough infections can occur even with effective vaccines, highlighting that flu shots are essential in reducing severe complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children.

Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Vaccination

The flu vaccine is not only about individual protection but also about community health. Dr. Roumeliotis pointed out that vaccination plays a vital role in preventing the spread of the virus, which can lead to hospitalizations. “It may be the difference between being admitted to hospital and not being admitted to hospital,” he said.

In addition to the flu vaccine, Dr. Roumeliotis recommends the RSV vaccine for infants and the elderly, along with the COVID vaccine. He described the upcoming winter as a “triple threat” with flu, RSV, and COVID-19 circulating simultaneously. “Unlike with the common cold, we do have vaccines to protect ourselves against the flu, RSV, and COVID,” he added.

Distinguishing Between Cold and Flu Symptoms

As flu season nears, it is crucial to differentiate between various respiratory illnesses. Currently, the most common illness in Ottawa is the common cold, according to Dr. Roumeliotis. Many individuals may mistakenly believe they have the flu or COVID-19 due to similar symptoms. “Don’t think that just because you’re sick, you’re good to go with the flu,” he cautioned.

To clarify, Dr. Roumeliotis explained that common cold symptoms typically include a runny nose, mild fever, and a mild cough, which usually resolve without complications. In contrast, flu symptoms can be more severe, involving high fever, body aches, and prolonged illness that could last several weeks.

While Ottawa has not yet seen significant flu or COVID-19 cases, Dr. Roumeliotis noted that flu season usually peaks in December and January. “We’re not seeing the flu, we’re not seeing COVID, we’re not seeing RSV yet, I want to underscore yet,” he stated, emphasizing the need for vigilance as winter approaches.

In summary, as health officials prepare for a challenging flu season, the importance of vaccination cannot be overstated. Individuals are encouraged to seek vaccination not only for their protection but also to safeguard those around them from potentially severe illness.