As influenza cases surge throughout Ontario and concerns about vaccine hesitancy remain, pharmacists and physicians in the province are emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated.
According to Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases expert at Toronto General Hospital, getting the flu shot remains the most effective way to prevent infection. He stressed the significance of receiving the flu shot during an interview on CBC Radio’s Metro Morning this week, highlighting the severity of the flu virus and its potential to lead individuals to hospitalization.
While the flu season is just commencing in Ontario, some regions in the Southern Hemisphere have already witnessed an uptick in cases, surpassing average levels for the second consecutive year. The current flu season overseas has been characterized by record case numbers and an early onset in areas such as Asia and the U.K., serving as a potential indicator for Canada’s upcoming winter season.
Recent data from Public Health Ontario revealed that nearly two percent of influenza tests conducted from October 26 to November 1 yielded positive results, marking an increase compared to the previous week. The agency anticipates a further rise in cases, particularly among children, throughout November.
Despite the escalating number of flu cases, reluctance towards vaccination persists. Sandra Hanna, a Toronto pharmacist and CEO of the Neighbourhood Pharmacist Association of Canada, attributed this hesitancy to the prolonged focus on vaccines, particularly heightened by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new strain of influenza A, known as H3N2, is contributing to the apprehension surrounding vaccination. This strain is often associated with severe infections, particularly among older individuals. Some experts have expressed concerns that the latest mutation may widen the gap between the virus and the current flu shot, potentially rendering it ineffective.
However, Dr. Bogoch clarified that although there might be a mismatch between the vaccine and the circulating strains, it still provides some level of protection. He emphasized that individuals may not know which strain they will encounter, reinforcing the importance of vaccination.
In an effort to boost vaccination rates, over 265 first-year Doctor of Pharmacy students at the University of Toronto’s Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy will be assisting in administering flu shots at local pharmacies starting in November. Program director Natalie Crown highlighted the convenience and accessibility of pharmacies for immunizations, emphasizing the students’ role in supporting community health.
Crown noted that the involvement of pharmacy students in vaccination efforts not only benefits the busy pharmacy environment during this period but also provides valuable hands-on learning experiences for the students. She emphasized the enthusiasm of both students and pharmacists in participating in this initiative.