GN to Nunavummiut: Get your flu shot

The Nunavut government is reminding people to get vaccinated as respiratory illnesses continue to surge across the country.

A vaccine against influenza is available for free at all health centres across Nunavut and at Iqaluit Public Health, the Department of Health announced Monday in a news release.

“Since COVID-19 has very similar symptoms to a cold or the flu, it is important that those who are able get their flu shots do so,” states the release. 

“While the flu shot does not protect against other viruses or bacteria, it can help reduce pressure on our health system.”

COVID-19 vaccines are also still available to anybody aged six months or older.

On top of getting vaccinated, the news release advises people to take other measures to protect themselves and others from illness.

That includes staying home when sick and frequent hand-washing.

On top of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, influenza case numbers are higher than normal this year, according to Health Canada, including a rise in the amount of pediatric hospitalizations associated with the illness.

Health Canada says 247 influenza-related pediatric hospitalizations were reported during the week of Nov. 27 to Dec. 3.

Doctors are also seeing more cases of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, an infection that is normally mild in adults but can be dangerous for young children, people over age 65 or immunocompromised adults.

The Nunavut government rolled out its annual vaccine program last month against RSV. These vaccines were made available to youth who are at higher risk of developing severe illness from RSV infection.