Sometimes, daily measures such as hand washing, which we take to protect ourselves against certain infections, are not enough. The flu vaccine is a method that is simple, effective, and within everyone’s reach to prevent the flu and its consequences. But have you thought about getting yourself vaccinated?

The flu: More serious than we think

Considered one of the diseases to have caused the greatest number of deaths in the world, the flu (short for influenza) continues to be a major concern in our society today. In fact, this severe infection, which may even be fatal, affects many Canadians each year and spreads incredibly fast.

The advent of the flu vaccine has helped reduce the transmission of the virus considerably, and this helps save the lives of millions of people each year. It is undoubtedly the most effective way to protect ourselves against the flu!

People often confuse the flu with the common cold. The symptoms of the flu are more severe and include:

• high fever;
• coughing;
• muscular aches;
• generalized discomfort that lasts several days;
• feeling unusually tired.

In addition, the flu can deteriorate into serious medical complications, including pneumonia, hospitalization, and death. This happens particularly to people with a delicate health.

Each year, a new vaccine against the flu is developed and made available towards the end of the fall. It offers no protection against the virus that causes colds or other respiratory tract infections.

The flu virus is in constant evolution, and the vaccine targets the virus that is most likely to spread in the community the next season.

Cold or flu: know the difference >>

Who should get vaccinated?

All Canadians who are more than 6 months old should think about getting vaccinated each year, except those for whom the vaccine is not recommended.

For some people, the consequences of the flu can be disastrous. The vaccination program is meant particularly for these people, who can be vaccinated for free.

People with a high risk of developing complications from the flu:

• people aged 75 and above;
• people aged 6 months and above with certain chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, cardiac complaints, lung disease, kidney failure, cancer);
• residents of nursing homes;
• pregnant women;
• individuals with an immune system deficiency;
• young people under 18 taking acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin);
• people who are travelling to an area where influenza circulates a lot.

People in contact with those at a high risk of developing complications:

• healthcare workers;
• daycare workers;
• people in contact with high-risk individuals;
• those close to infants under 6 months.

What are the flu vaccine contraindications?

It’s possible that the flu vaccine isn’t suitable for you. Talk to a healthcare professional if:

• you have already suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome or an oculo-respiratory syndrome after being vaccinated against the flu;
• you have already had an allergy or a severe reaction to the flu vaccine or one of its components;
• you have an illness that causes a high fever;

Is the flu vaccine safe?

There are a number of myths about the safety of vaccines. If you have doubts, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Organizations that are public health authorities recommend vaccination because the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the (minimal) risks it carries.

What are the side effects of the flu vaccine?

The vaccine is generally well tolerated. When there are side effects, they are usually mild and temporary. Pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site are among the most frequent side effects. Taking acetaminophen may alleviate the symptoms. Talk to your pharmacist about it.

Other symptoms may also appear temporarily for a few days. They resemble symptoms of the flu, but are much milder:

• body aches;
• headaches;
• runny nose;
• fever;
• cough;
• throat irritation, etc.

Allergic reactions are very rare. They start a few minutes after the injection of the vaccine. They can, for instance, cause the following symptoms: difficulty breathing; swollen throat, tongue, or lips; hives.

It is recommended that you stay on the premises for 15 minutes after the vaccination so that steps can be taken if there is an allergic reaction.

When should I get my flu shot?

It’s recommended to get the influenza vaccine every year in the fall or winter, ideally before the start of flu season. It’s also recommended to wait 6 months after your last shot or after you last had the flu.

What if I’m pregnant?

Pregnant women can be vaccinated against influenza as early as the 13^th week of pregnancy. It’s recommended to get a flu shot during every pregnancy, since pregnant women and babies under 6 months of age are at greater risk of flu-related complications and hospitalization.

Is the flu shot free in Quebec?

The vaccine is offered free of charge to everyone aged 6 months and over.

Book an appointment at your Brunet pharmacy via Clic Santé

The COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at many Brunet-affiliated pharmacies. You can book an appointment for both shots via Clic Santé.

Book an appointment >>

Being vaccinated against the flu is a personal choice that is worth thinking about. To make an informed decision, you must be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment, risks involved, and the vulnerability of your own health to the consequences of the flu.

Your pharmacist is a healthcare professional who is well versed in the subject and can help you see things more clearly. Don’t hesitate to ask them for advice.

Last updated on November 15, 2024

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