Memories of summer still linger, yet we at TMVC are ramping up for the upcoming influenza season.
The first vaccine shipments are arriving towards the end of September. This year we will use Vaxigrip and Agriflu – both are the same vaccine but Agriflu has no preservatives (Thimersol).
We provide flu vaccines not only to interested travellers, but also to employees throughout the province. Our workplace vaccination program is the largest in BC – in October alone we will vaccinate 20.000 employees across BC with the flu shot. If you are an employer and are interested in setting up a clinic for your employees, please don’t hesitate to contact our Occupational Health Coordinator, Sarah Curtiss, at 604-678-1391.
Below, we answer some commonly asked question about influenza and the flu shots:
What is Influenza?
Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by two viruses, influenza A and influenza B. Outbreaks of influenza occur every winter, often affecting as many as 10%-30% of the population. The usual symptoms are fever, sore throat, coughing, and aching muscles, lasting up to a week. Influenza can also lead to pneumonia especially in older individuals or in people with underlying medical conditions.
How is influenza transmitted?
Influenza viruses are transmitted from infected people by tiny respiratory droplets created by talking, coughing, and sneezing. Infected people are most contagious during the first 48 hours of illness.
Why do I need a flu shot annually?
Every winter different strains of influenza circulate throughout Canada. Each year a new vaccine is manufactured with the flu viruses that are expected to be most widespread. This year the vaccine will contain the H1N1and H3N2 strains from last year.
Although the strains are the same the flu vaccine is only effective for six months so an annual shot is necessary to stay protected.
Can I get the flu from the flu shot?
Because the flu vaccine contains only killed viruses, there is no risk of infection from the shot.
Who should receive the flu shot?
Anyone who wishes to reduce their chance of contracting influenza and high-risk groups according to BCCDC guidelines. Please ask your health care provider for details on who is eligible for free influenza vaccine.
Who should not receive the flu shot?
The vaccine should not be given to anyone with a history of severe allergy to eggs, previous flu shot reaction, are ill with an infection/fever, or have an active neurological condition.
Can you still get a cold after receiving the flu shot?
The flu vaccine does not prevent all colds and upper respiratory tract infections. The current vaccine only protects against three of the most virulent strains of influenza A and B viruses. Therefore, it is still possible for an immunized person to acquire other respiratory viruses that cause the common cold. The primary goal of the influenza vaccination program is to reduce the significant toll of serious illness that occurs every year as a result of true influenza infection.
