Health Influenza The best defence against seasonal flu is still the current vaccine available beginning each fall. People over 65 years of age are strongly advised to get their shot each fall because their immune systems are weaker, and many have underlying medical conditions that increase their risk not only for the illness, but also for the complications. This past season has been especially bad, with the H3N2 strain dominating and proven to be especially severe in children under five and adults over 65. Although this year’s vaccine was not as effective as other years, all public health agencies continue to stress that this is still our best way to reduce the risk of acquiring the infection and reducing its intensity, if acquired. Past reports on suspected side-effects from vaccines have been totally disproven, with the vast majority of recipients having no side-effects and only a few reporting mild localized and temporary redness or discomfort at the site of the injection. Recent research in the United States at Mt. Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine has concentrated with some success in the development of a universal influenza virus vaccine, which would be much more effective and last much longer. All provinces provide the flu shot free of charge and, not only at your doctor’s office and public health clinics, accessibility for the vaccine has been greatly improved by many provinces which allow its administration by pharmacists. If you don’t get your shot before you leave for your winter trip, be sure and get it at your destination. Remember, it’s not just for your protection, it’s also for the benefit of public health and reducing the transmission of the virus to others, especially your own family. Pneumococcal Pneumonia Pneumococcal polysaccharide 23-valent (Pneu-P-23) vaccine, commonly referred to as “the pneumonia vaccine” – which protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria – is recommended for all adults 65 years of age and older. This vaccine is the best way to protect against pneumococcal infection, a common serious and sometimes fatal disease which is especially important for seniors with certain chronic conditions. The causative agent is Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria which can cause meningitis, blood infections and pneumonia. At present, this is recommended as a one-time vaccination believed to provide you with lifetime protection. As with the “flu shot” for influenza, this vaccine is covered by your provincial health plan. CSANews | SPRING 2018 | 37
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