Maritimes’ COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Season Off to a Steady Start
The COVID-19 and flu vaccine season in the Maritimes is off to a strong start, with pharmacies seeing a steady flow of people getting vaccinated since appointments opened earlier this month.
The owner of Nova Pharmacy in Halifax, Peter Jorna, mentioned that the demand for vaccine appointments has been high, with their first vaccine clinic filling up within just a few days. Nova Scotia’s health minister, Michelle Thompson, stated that over 240,000 appointments for flu and COVID vaccines have been booked online, including 3,500 vaccines administered through mobile clinics.
The Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia reported a significant interest in the high-dose flu vaccine, which is now free for seniors for the first time. However, there have been challenges in offering combo appointments for both flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines due to logistical constraints.
New Brunswick also reported steady demand, with over 60,000 residents receiving flu shots and more than 41,000 doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccines administered. Despite concerns about vaccine fatigue, health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination as the easiest and best defense against respiratory illnesses during this time of year.
It’s worth noting that immunity from vaccines wanes over time, and COVID-19 vaccines have a recommended booster shot after six months. Experts recommend Canadians to stay updated with their vaccinations.
Key Takeaways:
- Maritimes’ COVID-19 and flu vaccine season has had a strong start.
- Over 240,000 appointments for flu and COVID vaccines have been booked in Nova Scotia.
- The high-dose flu vaccine has seen a high demand among seniors in Nova Scotia.
- Pharmacies have challenges in offering combo appointments for flu and COVID vaccines.
- New Brunswick has reported steady demand for flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines.
- Vaccine fatigue is a concern, but health experts stress the importance of vaccination.
- COVID-19 vaccines have a recommended booster shot after six months due to waning immunity.
Conclusion:
The Maritimes’ COVID-19 and flu vaccine season has started off strong, with a high demand for appointments and vaccines. Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have seen steady uptake, with a focus on the high-dose flu vaccine for seniors and the need for booster shots for COVID-19. Although vaccine fatigue is a concern, health experts continue to promote vaccination as the best defense against respiratory illnesses. It is important for residents to stay updated with their vaccinations to maintain protection.
Read Also: “N.S. top doctor urges people to get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses this fall” – Video featuring the war against respiratory illnesses this fall.
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