As Canadian children return to school and the weather gets colder, preparations for the upcoming fall season of common illnesses are underway. According to the most recent federal surveillance report monitoring influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), there are currently low and stable levels of these respiratory threats, indicating a potential resurgence in the coming months.
Dr. Ayisha Kurji, a pediatrician based in Saskatoon and assistant professor at the University of Saskatchewan, emphasized that as the weather cools and people spend more time indoors, the transmission of illnesses increases, leading to higher emergency department visits and hospitalizations, especially among children.
Immunologist Matthew Miller from McMaster University advised Canadians to consider getting seasonal vaccines early. Reflecting on the previous flu season with an unusually severe early peak in December, Miller stressed the importance of timely immunization to allow the immune system to build protective immunity.
It typically takes two to four weeks for the body to develop a peak immune response to the flu shot. Miller highlighted that the fall flu shot, recommended for all Canadians aged six months and older, is just one aspect of the array of vaccines families should consider.
In addition to the flu shot, experts recommend staying up to date with routine vaccinations to prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. Measles has continued to circulate, posing a risk as children return to school after summer travels.
Furthermore, Canada’s national vaccine advisory body suggests COVID-19 shots for high-risk individuals such as older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying medical conditions. RSV vaccines are also available for older adults and pregnant individuals to combat the dangerous virus in newborns.
Recent studies have shown the effectiveness of RSV vaccines in reducing severe infections among older adults and newborns. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks of diseases like measles, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Notably, vaccination coverage against measles, mumps, rubella, and other diseases remains below optimal levels in Canada, contributing to measles outbreaks across North America. With ongoing efforts to increase vaccination rates and combat vaccine-preventable diseases, public health officials urge the public to prioritize vaccination to protect vulnerable populations and prevent disease transmission.