Why influenza vaccination matters
Influenza is not “just a cold.” Each year it contributes to hospitalizations and complications—especially in older adults, young children, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung disease. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe outcomes even when the match between circulating strains and the vaccine is imperfect.
Who should be immunized
Public health authorities in Canada recommend annual influenza immunization for most people six months of age and older. High-priority groups include adults 65+, residents of long-term care, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, or heart disease. Your clinician can confirm eligibility and any contraindications (for example, a prior severe allergic reaction to a vaccine component). See Health Canada’s immunization hub for general background.
Timing and myths
In Eastern Ontario, vaccine typically becomes available in the fall. Earlier vaccination is generally better before community spread peaks, but late vaccination still helps if you missed the first weeks. Egg allergy is not a routine reason to avoid the influenza vaccine for most formulations—tell your clinic so they can follow current guidance. The vaccine cannot give you influenza because inactivated products do not contain live virus.
After your shot
A sore arm, mild fatigue, or low-grade fever for a day can occur. Seek urgent care for signs of severe allergy (hives, breathing difficulty, swelling) or if you feel acutely unwell in a way that concerns you.
Bottom line
Book your vaccine with your family practice or pharmacy, keep your record updated, and ask questions—your team prefers an informed choice over myths shared online.
Written by Dr. Payman Shahabi
Head of Family Medicine
Dr. Payman Shahabi, MD, PhD, CCFP, leads family medicine at Trita. He is a family physician and hospitalist, faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University, with a PhD in personalized medicine and pharmacogenetics and residency training at Université Laval. His practice emphasizes continuity, prevention, and evidence-based care.
