South East Health Unit Medical Officer of Health and CEO, Dr. Piotr Oglaza, said the three pathogens to be aware of this cold and flu season are influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.
He said since the pandemic, they’ve noticed a significant impact of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, on older adults.
In previous years, the publicly-funded RSV vaccine was open to anyone 65 years and older, who lived in a congregate setting, like a long-term care home.
Dr. Oglaza said this year, it is also opening up to all adults 75 and older.
He added that RSV vaccines have been part of routine childhood vaccinations for quite some time, and will remain so.
While COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available from pharmacies, the RSV vaccine is available through healthcare providers and long-term care homes only.
He said pharmacies often do not vaccinate young children, so parents looking for information about getting their kids vaccinated can consult with their healthcare provider or public health.
