Start of Respiratory Infection Vaccination Campaign

Sherbrooke, October 7, 2024 – Appointments are now available for influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations.

Beginning on October 16, the annual vaccination campaign against respiratory viruses will start. The influenza vaccine provides protection against multiple strains of type A and B viruses. The new COVID-19 vaccine is designed to offer immunity against circulating variants, including the KP2 variant.

Target Groups for COVID-19 Vaccination:

• Residents of long-term care facilities (CHSLD), seniors’ residences (RPA), or other group living environments with a high proportion of vulnerable elderly people;
• People aged 60 and older;
• Immunocompromised or dialysis patients aged 6 months and older;
• Individuals aged 6 months and older with chronic conditions (heart or lung disease, diabetes, significant obesity, etc.);
• Healthcare workers;
• Pregnant women;
• Adults living in remote and isolated regions.

Target Groups for Influenza Vaccination:

• People aged 75 and older;
• Individuals aged 6 months and older with chronic conditions;
• Residents of long-term care facilities (CHSLD) and intermediate care homes;
• Pregnant women:
  • at any stage of pregnancy if they have chronic conditions,
  • or after 13 weeks of pregnancy.

The flu vaccine is also recommended for people who may transmit the flu to those at higher risk of complications, including:

• Household members of children under 6 months old;
• Household members of individuals aged 75 and older, those with chronic conditions, or pregnant women;
• Caregivers of long-term care residents, people aged 75 and older, or those with chronic conditions;
• Healthcare workers.

It is possible to receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same appointment. In the early weeks of the campaign, appointments will prioritize high-risk individuals, but vaccines will be available free of charge to everyone.

Appointment Required Vaccines are available at local CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS service points and participating pharmacies. Early appointment slots will be reserved for target groups. To schedule, register at clicsante.ca or call 1-877-644-4545. The number of appointments and hours of availability will be adjusted according to public needs.

Source: CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS