Public Health Ontario reported 360 positive cases of influenza across the province between Oct. 18 and Oct. 24, cp24.com reported. That figure follows 305 cases recorded a week earlier and 225 cases the week prior to that. Ontario’s flu season kicked off in early September.
Despite the start, early data indicates that this year’s formulation provides strong protection against circulating strains. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist, pointed to tests conducted by the National Microbiology Lab of Canada tracking respiratory virus surveillance.
“The early data, where they tested 116 samples, demonstrated that the current flu vaccine or the flu vaccine that’s being rolled out this year is a pretty good match, like a really good match for the circulating flu. So, great news,” Dr. Bogoch said in an interview with CTV News Toronto.
Province-Wide Vaccine Rollout and Clinic Details
The province initially rolled out free flu shots for targeted groups in late September before opening availability Ontario-wide on Oct. 26. Toronto Public Health published a news release encouraging residents aged six months and older to receive both their flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine.
Free immunizations are currently available through participating local pharmacies and health-care providers. In addition to standard distribution channels, Toronto Public Health scheduled a dedicated vaccination clinic for Thursday, Nov. 5, at the North York Civic Centre. Residents attending the Nov. 5 clinic can receive flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines.
Current COVID-19 Metrics Across the Province
Alongside rising influenza numbers, provincial health officials are monitoring coronavirus activity. Ontario recorded 258 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 for the week ending Oct. 24.
Dr. Bogoch noted that currently available COVID-19 vaccines also appear to be working well to combat the spread of the disease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario Immunizations
Where can I get a free flu shot in Ontario?
Free flu shots are available for everyone aged six months and older at participating pharmacies and health-care providers across Toronto following the Ontario-wide rollout on Oct. 26.
What vaccines are available at the North York Civic Centre clinic?
Toronto Public Health is offering flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines for everyone aged six months and older at the North York Civic Centre vaccination clinic scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5.
How effective is the current influenza vaccine?
Initial testing of 116 samples by the National Microbiology Lab of Canada indicates that this season’s vaccine is a pretty good match, like a really good match for the circulating flu.
Keep reading