Manitoba Health Officials Urge Flu Vaccination Amid Mismatches

The chief provincial public health officer of Manitoba, Dr. Brent Roussin, is urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza despite concerns that the latest H3N2 mutation may not align with this year’s vaccine. As the flu season progresses, officials emphasize that vaccination remains the best defense against severe illness.

Dr. Roussin highlighted that a significant increase in influenza test positivity has been observed in the province over the past few weeks. This rise has been largely attributed to the H3N2 subtype of the influenza A virus. He stated, “It’s really important that the discussion that there could be a possible mismatch shouldn’t affect anybody’s ability or decision to receive that vaccine, because it’s still our best protection.”

Flu Statistics and Recommendations

Since late August, Manitoba has recorded a total of 556 cases of influenza, with 262 new cases reported during the week of November 23. In the Prairie Mountain Health region alone, there have been 111 cases, including 41 new cases in the same week. Dr. Roussin pointed out that children aged five and under are at a higher risk of contracting influenza, although severe outcomes, including admissions to intensive care and deaths, can affect all age groups.

According to Dr. Roussin, the flu vaccine provides protection against multiple strains, including H3N2, H1N1, and influenza B. He noted that even when the vaccine’s effectiveness against contracting influenza is reduced, it generally remains effective in preventing severe outcomes. “It’s predictable that we see these severe outcomes, and most times when we see these severe outcomes, those are in unvaccinated people,” he added.

The World Health Organization develops the influenza vaccine for the northern hemisphere based on the patterns observed in the southern hemisphere. Variations in the virus during this timeframe can lead to mismatches between the vaccine and circulating strains.

Hospitalizations and Public Health Advice

Recent reports show that there were 1,623 visits to emergency departments in Manitoba due to respiratory issues starting the week of November 23, which included 46 flu-related hospital admissions and three deaths. The number of severe cases can vary yearly, but Dr. Roussin emphasized the need for vigilance, as influenza should be taken seriously.

The chief provincial public health officer recommends both the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines for everyone aged six months and older, particularly for high-risk groups, including individuals over 65 and those with underlying health conditions. “We know both these vaccines have good safety profiles and are effective at preventing severe outcomes,” he stated.

As of now, over 205,000 COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Manitoba, with more than 288,000 residents receiving flu shots. Public health officials continue to distribute vaccines across various healthcare clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals throughout the province.

Dr. Roussin acknowledged the ongoing spread of COVID-19, with 167 cases reported in the Prairie Mountain Health region since late August. During the week of November 23, there were 11 new COVID-19 cases in Prairie Mountain, contributing to a total of 966 cases across Manitoba. In that same week, nine individuals were admitted to the hospital with COVID-19-related illnesses, and seven deaths were reported.

In light of the ongoing threats posed by respiratory viruses, Dr. Roussin urged the public to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, coughing into sleeves, and staying home when sick. Public health services in Prairie Mountain Health have hosted pop-up clinics to increase vaccination access, encouraging residents to consult with healthcare providers regarding vaccination options.

As Manitoba navigates this flu season, officials stress the importance of being informed and taking necessary precautions to protect oneself and the community.