As Canadian students return to school and the weather gets cooler, the upcoming fall season brings the risk of seasonal illnesses. Medical professionals emphasize that protecting one’s health goes beyond receiving a flu shot.
The latest federal surveillance report monitors influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), indicating a calm period before an expected surge in respiratory illnesses. Pediatrician Dr. Ayisha Kurji from Saskatoon warns that colder weather and increased indoor activities facilitate the spread of viruses, leading to more emergency room visits and hospitalizations, particularly among children.
Immunologist Matthew Miller from McMaster University advises Canadians to plan for seasonal vaccinations early. Notably, last year witnessed an unusually severe early peak in flu cases, highlighting the importance of timely immunization to build protective immunity before the peak flu season.
In addition to the flu shot recommended for all Canadians aged six months and above, experts recommend considering a range of vaccines to safeguard against various illnesses. Amid ongoing measles circulation and the potential for a resurgence in the fall, maintaining vaccination coverage is crucial, especially given the increased risk posed by travel and close classroom settings.
For higher-risk individuals, including older adults and pregnant individuals, Canada’s national vaccine advisory body recommends receiving a COVID shot. RSV vaccines are also available for these groups to combat the dangerous impact of the virus on newborns.
Research shows that new RSV vaccines significantly reduce severe infections, particularly among older adults and newborns. Beyond seasonal vaccines, staying up to date on routine vaccinations is vital to prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, which can have serious health implications if not adequately addressed.
Despite vaccination efforts, federal data indicates suboptimal immunization rates for measles, mumps, rubella, and other preventable diseases, contributing to measles outbreaks across North America. While the U.S. has faced numerous outbreaks in 2026, Canada has experienced a significant number of measles cases, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, highlighted the impact of unvaccinated children on measles outbreaks, underscoring the preventable nature of measles through vaccination. As measles cases continue to rise, health experts stress the need for comprehensive vaccination strategies to mitigate the health risks associated with these preventable diseases.