Seniors' wellness: Navigating your vaccinations this fall

(NC) With colds, flu and COVID-19 circulating, here are some vaccination tips for Canadian seniors to help them breathe easier this fall season.

Getting updated vaccines

Vaccines protect you and those around you from getting seriously ill. Vaccines are regularly updated to keep up with the evolving virus strains, making sure they remain effective against new variants.

Health Canada emphasizes the importance of getting both the updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines. A recent Government of Canada survey found that 73 per cent of Canadian seniors received the flu vaccine last season, while 67 per cent received the COVID-19 vaccine. To make it more convenient, you can receive both vaccines at the same time.

“We’re seeing a higher number of seniors receiving their flu and COVID-19 vaccines compared to other groups, but there is still a portion of this community that remains vulnerable when they don’t need to be,” says infectious diseases physician Dr. Zain Chagla. “There is no need to prioritize one vaccine over the other; both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are effective and safe.”

Dr. Chagla adds, “There is extensive research and real-world data that has shown that receiving a series of updated COVID-19 vaccines over time is both safe and effective. Seniors should ensure they are up-to-date with both vaccines, particularly during cold and flu season, to maintain optimal protection.”

Distinguishing the risk of COVID-19 vs. flu

While both the flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, they differ in how severe the infection can be, how they spread (transmission) and the risks of complications. A key difference is that severe illness is more common with a COVID-19 infection than with the flu.

Older adults are at a much higher risk of severe symptoms and complications from COVID-19. The latest guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccination for all adults 65 years of age of older, residents of long-term care homes, individuals with underlying medical conditions, individuals belonging to First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, and members of racialized and other equity-deserving communities.

Stay safe in fall 2024 by keeping up-to-date on your vaccines. To learn if you are due for a follow-up dose, speak with a qualified health-care professional or visit your local pharmacy.