MEMO: Seasonal Influenza FAQ   

TO:  Health Care Providers Who Administer Seasonal Influenza 

FROM: Vaccine Preventable Disease program, Niagara Region Public Health & Emergency Services

REFERENCE: Seasonal Influenza FAQ

DATE:  Oct. 31, 2019

Why didn't I get what I ordered?

• We fill orders based on the products and quantities that we have at any given time. We also strive for an equitable distribution to all health care providers placing orders (except for pharmacies as they have a different distributor).

Should I make my seniors wait to receive high-dose TIV?

• No. We do not expect significant shipments of high-dose influenza vaccine. Do not make your patients wait to receive high-dose TIV.
• NACI has not identified any preference between high-dose TIV and QIV products for individuals 65 years of age and older
• Currently, there is insufficient evidence to directly compare the high-dose TIV and standard dose QIV products

What do I tell patients wanting to wait for a high-dose flu shot?

• Tell them you give what products you have available to seniors; this may be either high-dose or standard-dose flu shots
• It is more important to get vaccinated early in the flu season with any vaccine that is available than to wait
• The high-dose flu shot is just another option. Both vaccines protect against the flu.
• While the high-dose flu shot seems to offer slightly better protection again three flu strains, the standard flu shot gives broader protection because it protects you against four flu strains
• Pharmacies are not giving high-dose flu vaccine 

Can the flu vaccine be given with other vaccines?

• Yes. Flu vaccine can be given on the same day as other vaccines.

For more information, visit niagararegion.ca/health or contact Niagara Region Public Health & Emergency Services, Vaccine Preventable Disease Program at 1-888-505-6074 or 905-688-8248 ext. 7396 Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.