Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

This content was archived on June 24, 2013.

Influenza Immunization Awareness Month

October, 2011

October is Influenza Immunization Awareness Month. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a wide range of influenza viruses that spread rapidly from person to person.

Every year, between 2,000 and 8,000 Canadians die of influenza and its complications. Many more become seriously ill, and require hospitalization.

In Canada, flu season usually runs from November to April, so now is a good time to find out when and where you can get your annual flu shot.

Influenza viruses can change rapidly so, as Minister of Health, I recommend that all Canadians over the age of six months get the flu shot. It's the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick.

Getting the flu shot every year is also important, because the vaccine is formulated to protect against the most current strains of the virus. Even if you got the flu shot last year, you should get it again this year.

The seasonal influenza vaccine is safe and effective, and remains the best protection against the influenza virus. All vaccines authorized for use in Canada are carefully tested for safety. The benefit of immunization--the prevention of serious illness and death--far outweighs any risk associated with being immunized.

Everyone is at risk of catching the flu, but some people are at greater risk of developing severe complications from the illness. Consult your health-care professional to determine if you have medical conditions that put you at a greater risk.

Protect yourself. For more information about the flu, and to find out if you're at greater risk from the flu, visit fightflu.ca.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada