Ontario's chief medical officer of health has expressed optimism about the upcoming respiratory virus season, stating that the province and its hospitals are expected to face less strain compared to the previous year. The key factor for success, according to the officer, lies in achieving high levels of vaccination among the population.
Vaccination Drive Commences for All Ages
Starting today, all Ontario residents aged six months and older are eligible to receive free vaccinations against the flu and an updated COVID-19 vaccine. This initiative aims to enhance immunity and reduce the impact of respiratory viruses on the community.
New Vaccines Approved to Combat XBB COVID-19 Variant
Health Canada has approved new COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna. These vaccines are specifically designed to target the XBB COVID-19 variant, providing an added layer of protection against emerging strains of the virus.
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Eligibility Criteria for COVID-19 Vaccination
Individuals aged six months and older are eligible for the new COVID-19 vaccine if six months have passed since their last vaccine dose or confirmed infection. This strategy aligns with the goal of maintaining robust immunity levels in the population.
Current Health Landscape: RSV Levels Rising, Flu Season Yet to Begin
While levels of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are increasing, the flu season has not yet commenced. Despite this, COVID-19 continues to exert a significant impact on the health system. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to get vaccinated promptly to mitigate the spread of respiratory viruses.