Respiratory Illness Season Begins in Niagara: Essential Steps to Protect Your Health

September 24, 2024

Niagara Region Public Health has recently confirmed two laboratory cases of influenza (flu). As we enter respiratory illness season, cases are expected to increase over the coming weeks and months, marking the beginning of a critical time for public health.

Respiratory illnesses, such as the flu, COVID-19, RSV, pertussis (whooping cough), and pneumococcal disease can lead to severe health complications—especially for our most vulnerable. We urge residents to protect themselves and their loved ones by staying up to date with vaccinations.

Flu Vaccine Availability
The influenza vaccine will be prioritized for high risk groups in early October, with vaccines for the general public expected to be available sometime between the end of October and early November, once additional vaccine supply is available.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Updated COVID-19 vaccine(s) will be available early fall. Initial doses will be allocated to high risk populations, with additional details regarding vaccine for the general population to follow once distribution begins.

RSV Immunization
The province has made some exciting RSV program updates, focused on protecting infants and high-risk children. Please monitor Where to Get Vaccinated this fall for details on where and how to access the program (e.g. at the hospital or through your family doctor).

Beyfortus® is expected to be available starting mid to late October, to protect infants entering or born during their first RSV season and high-risk children who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease entering their second RSV season. Beyfortus® is the recommended product to protect infants and young children from RSV.

For individuals aged 60 and older who are also at high risk, including residents of long-term care and retirement homes, the RSV vaccine is currently available. Those who received the RSV vaccine last year still have protection and do not need to receive another dose this year.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Vaccination
With increased pertussis activity in the Niagara region and the rest of Ontario, it is essential to stay up to date with routine vaccinations—people of all ages need pertussis vaccines.

To protect newborn babies from getting pertussis, pregnant individuals should get a vaccination in the third trimester. A dose is recommended for each pregnancy regardless of any previous doses received.

Parents, grandparents, and caregivers—your role is critical. Ensure that you and your loved ones are up to date on whooping cough vaccinations to keep children safe.

Pneumococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal disease can lead to serious complications such as meningitis, bacteremia, and pneumonia, particularly affecting young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.

With over 90 known types of pneumococcal bacteria, a previous infection does not provide protection against future infections. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against pneumococcal disease.

Ontario offers three vaccination programs: routine vaccinations for children aged 6 weeks to 4 years, vaccinations for adults 65 and older, and a high-risk program for individuals aged 6 weeks and older.

Concurrent Vaccination
As per the Ontario Ministry of Health guidance, vaccines for respiratory illnesses can be co-administered with each other and as well as other recommended vaccines. This minimizes the need for multiple visits.

Layers of Protection: Your Role Matters
In addition to vaccinations, we must all take action to lower the risk of catching and spreading respiratory infections:

• Stay home when you’re sick: Protect others by resting at home.
• Practice good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette: Wash your hands frequently and cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Consider wearing masks: Especially in crowded or enclosed spaces.
• Ensure good ventilation: Keep indoor air fresh and circulating.
• Keep things clean: Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces regularly.

Respiratory illnesses can spread person-to-person (such as through a cough, sneeze or in some cases by breathing or talking) or through contact with contaminated surfaces. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with preexisting health conditions, are at greater risk for severe outcomes.

Talk to your health care provider or visit our website for more information about respiratory illnesses and where to get vaccinated in Niagara. And for regular updates on respiratory virus activity in both Niagara and Ontario, check out the Ontario Respiratory Virus Tool from Public Health Ontario.

Join us in taking proactive steps this season. Vaccinate, protect, and thrive together.

Media contact

Lisa Cox
Niagara Region Public Health
905-688-8248  ext. 7287
lisa.cox@niagararegion.ca