Flu cases show an early start to flu season

Flu season has arrived earlier than usual in Prince Edward Island, with confirmed cases and hospitalizations already reported. 

Islanders are encouraged to book their appointment to receive flu, COVID-19 or RSV vaccination to help protect themselves, their families and their communities.

"Islanders deserve access to the tools that help keep them healthy and out of hospital. That's why our government continues to make flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunization free and accessible. These programs help protect people, reduce serious illness, and ease pressure on our health-care system. I encourage Islanders to book their appointments early and take advantage of the protection available this fall."

- Health and Wellness Minister Cory Deagle

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available free of charge to eligible Islanders through family doctors, nurse practitioners, community pharmacies and Public Health Nursing.

PEI is also continuing its expanded RSV protection program for infants and older adults. All infants (8 months of age and younger) are eligible to receive Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), a long-acting monoclonal antibody that provides season-long protection against RSV. Adults aged 75 and older who have never received an RSV vaccine are eligible to receive a dose from Public Health Nursing. Unlike COVID and influenza, RSV does not need to be given every year.

"Immunization continues to be among the most effective ways we have to prevent serious illness from respiratory viruses," said Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison. "We are already seeing influenza activity in PEI, which is earlier than expected. Booking your appointment now is an important step to protect yourself and stay healthy this fall and winter."

Since introducing RSV protection programs, PEI has seen fewer cases of severe RSV illness requiring hospitalization. RSV-related hospitalizations among infants declined by approximately 90 per cent compared to the previous season, showing the value of protecting those most at risk.

To book an appointment, Islanders can:

Additionally, FluMist®, a nasal spray influenza vaccine for children aged 2 to 17, is available only through Public Health Nursing clinics.

For more information on flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunization programs, visit https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/flu or contact your health care provider.

 

Media Contact
Autumn Tremere
Department of Health and Wellness
agtremere@gov.pe.ca 

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