Flu Season is Around the Corner

Kingston – It is important that individuals 65 years and older receive influenza vaccine as these individuals may be at higher risk of complications from influenza. For this reason, seniors age 65 years and older are advised to get a flu shot each year. This year there are two vaccines available for this age group.

• Fluzone® High-Dose is a publicly funded vaccine that provides protection against three strains of influenza and contains four times the amount of antigen as a regular flu shot to help build a better immune response.
• Fluzone® Quadrivalent is a publicly funded vaccine that protects against four strains of influenza and is also available for this age group.

With flu season approaching influenza vaccination is recommended for all individuals aged 6 months and older, with particular focus on people at high-risk of influenza related complications or hospitalization. These include:

• Adults and children with chronic health conditions.
• People of any age who are residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities.
• Adults 65 years of age and older.
• All children aged 6 months to 4 years of age.
• Indigenous peoples.

Influenza immunizations are available from:

• Your health care provider (for individuals 6 month of age and older).
• Local pharmacies (for individuals 5 years of age and older).
• KFL&A Public Health clinics for individuals 5 years of age or younger with no family doctor, individuals 65 years of age and older with no family doctor, and individuals without OHIP.

“Influenza immunization is the safest, longest-lasting and best defense for keeping people healthy during the influenza season,” said Dr. Moore. “Everyone who is six months of age and older is eligible for annual influenza immunization, unless there is a medical reason not to do so. It is especially important that those at high risk for influenza-related complications or those who live or work with people who are at high risk for complications, hospitalizations or death, receive influenza vaccine.”

KFL&A Public Health also recommends using the flu season as an opportunity to ensure that pneumococcal vaccines are up to date for those 65 years of age or older. Contact your health care provider for more information or speak with a registered nurse at KFL&A Public Health by calling 613-549-1232.

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