New Brunswickers will be able to get vaccinated for the upcoming respiratory illness season starting on October 15.
Updated vaccines for both influenza and COVID-19 will be available for everyone aged six months and older.
Public Health is encouraging all residents to get vaccinated, with a focus on those at high risk of complications from these infections.
“Staying up to date on vaccinations is important as we enter the respiratory illness season,” said Dr. Yves Léger, acting chief medical officer of health. “The COVID-19 and influenza vaccines will help reduce the risk of severe illness this fall and winter. We are encouraging New Brunswickers to get these vaccines during the same appointment, as it is both safe and convenient.”
COVID-19 Vaccine Details
The updated COVID-19 vaccine has been approved by Health Canada and targets the KP.2 subvariant of Omicron, which is currently circulating. The vaccine is strongly recommended for:
- People aged 65 and older
- Residents of long-term care facilities and congregate settings
- Individuals with underlying medical conditions
- Pregnant people
- Those in or from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities
- People providing essential community services
Appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine can be booked online or through participating community pharmacies, though not all pharmacies are using the online booking system.
Influenza Vaccine and FluMist Option
In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, updated influenza vaccines will also be available starting October 15. For children aged two to 17 who may be hesitant to receive a traditional needle-based vaccine, FluMist, a nasal spray option, will be offered again this year. Parents or guardians should contact their primary care provider, local Public Health office, or community pharmacy to determine if their child is eligible for FluMist.
Pneumococcal Vaccine for Seniors
Dr. Léger also recommends that individuals aged 65 and older consider getting the pneumococcal vaccine if they have not already done so. This single-dose vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal infections, which can lead to conditions such as pneumonia, sinus infections, and bloodstream infections. Pneumococcal infections are a leading cause of illness, hospitalization, and death worldwide.
Booking and Additional Information
Appointments for these vaccines can be made online or by contacting participating community pharmacies. More information about the vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcal illnesses is available on the New Brunswick Public Health website.
