Manitoba Health Officer Urges Flu Vaccination Despite Mismatches

Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer, Dr. Brent Roussin, is advocating for residents to receive the influenza vaccine despite concerns regarding a possible mismatch with the circulating H3N2 strain. This subtype of influenza A has shown mutations that may impact the vaccine’s effectiveness this season. Dr. Roussin emphasized that receiving the vaccine remains the best defense against flu-related complications.

In recent weeks, Manitoba has observed a significant rise in flu test positivity rates, largely attributed to the H3N2 subtype. Dr. Roussin noted that influenza A is known for its rapid evolution, often leading to earlier and more severe outbreaks compared to influenza B. The full effectiveness of this year’s flu vaccine will not be clear until mid to late season, as health professionals analyze ongoing data.

Rising Influenza Cases and Health Impacts

Since late August, Manitoba has reported a total of 556 influenza cases, with 262 new cases identified during the week of November 23. The Prairie Mountain Health region has seen 111 cases, with 41 new cases recorded in the same week. The rise in infections has resulted in 1,623 emergency department visits related to respiratory illnesses, including 46 hospital admissions and three flu-related deaths.

Dr. Roussin stressed that while flu is a seasonal illness, it can lead to serious outcomes across all age groups, particularly among unvaccinated individuals. He noted that children aged five and under are at greater risk for influenza, but severe cases can occur in older adults and those with underlying health conditions as well.

“The flu vaccine still provides significant protection against severe outcomes, even when its effectiveness against mild illness may be reduced,” Dr. Roussin stated. The World Health Organization formulates the flu vaccine for the northern hemisphere based on data from the southern hemisphere. This process can sometimes lead to mismatches if a strain evolves unexpectedly.

Vaccination Recommendations and Community Outreach

Dr. Roussin recommends the flu and COVID-19 vaccines for everyone over six months, particularly those at higher risk. He highlighted that both vaccines have proven safety profiles and are effective in preventing severe health outcomes. Since August, Manitoba has administered over 205,000 COVID-19 vaccines and more than 288,000 flu shots.

In response to rising infection rates, Prairie Mountain Health organized pop-up vaccination clinics throughout November at various locations, including the Brandon Friendship Centre and Shoppers Mall. Although these clinics are winding down, the public is encouraged to consult health care providers about vaccination options.

“The spread of respiratory viruses can be mitigated by simple actions such as frequent hand washing and staying home when ill,” Dr. Roussin advised, reinforcing the importance of community health measures.

As Manitoba navigates this respiratory virus season, Dr. Roussin’s message remains clear: vaccination is vital for protecting individual health and the broader community.