🩺 Everything You Should Know About the Flu

A Winter Visitor You Shouldn’t Overlook When temperatures suddenly drop, one seasonal illness always comes back into the spotlight: influenza, better known as the flu. The flu is often mistaken for a common cold, but it is caused by a much stronger virus and tends to strike suddenly and intensely. Because it returns every year, especially during the colder months, understanding it—and preparing for it—is essential. In this post, we’ll cover when the flu appears, who is considered high-risk, when to get vaccinated in Canada, and the facts you need to stay protected.

❄️ When Does the Flu Occur?

In Canada, the flu typically circulates from late fall through winter and into early spring. According to Health Canada, flu season usually runs from November to April, although the peak varies slightly by region.

The influenza virus causes symptoms that go far beyond the average cold:

👉 Sudden high fever (38–40°C) 👉 Body aches, joint pain, chills 👉 Dry cough or chest discomfort 👉 Severe fatigue 👉 Difficulty carrying out daily activities

Unlike a typical cold, the flu hits fast and hard. And for certain groups—young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic health conditions—the risk of complications is much higher. 🧓 Am I Considered High-Risk?

This is one of the most common questions pharmacists hear each year.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the following groups should prioritise flu vaccination:

✔ 1. People at higher risk of flu-related complications

• Pregnant individuals

• Residents of long-term care or assisted-living facilities

• Adults 65+

• Children aged 6 months to 4 years

• Indigenous communities (First Nations, Inuit, Métis)

• People with chronic conditions such as:

  • Heart or metabolic disorders

  • Chronic lung disease or asthma

  • Diabetes

  • Kidney disease

  • Immunocompromised conditions

  • Neurological or neuromuscular disorders

  • Severe obesity (BMI 40+)

✔ 2. Those who may transmit the flu to high-risk individuals

• Healthcare and community care workers

• Family members living with high-risk individuals

• Childcare workers

• Anyone caring for infants under 6 months (who cannot receive the flu shot)

✔ 3. Essential community service providers

(Police, first responders, social workers, etc.)

✔ 4. Poultry and livestock workers

(Due to potential exposure to influenza-related avian strains) 🍁 When Should You Get Your Flu Shot in Canada?

Here’s the general guideline for Ontario and most provinces:

✔ Best timing: October–November

✔ Getting vaccinated early in the flu season (November–December) offers the strongest protection ✔ It takes about 2 weeks for your body to develop immunity

The earlier you receive your shot, the better your protection during the peak winter months.

💉 Is the Flu Shot Really Free?

Yes! In Ontario, flu vaccines are free for anyone aged 6 months and older.

📍 You can get a FREE flu shot at:

• Local pharmacies

• Family doctors

• Public health clinics

Even without OHIP, most residents can still receive the flu vaccination at no cost. 🧠 Evidence-Based Tips to Prevent the Flu

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends these proven, practical prevention habits:

✔ Wash your hands often

Use soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds— still one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.

✔ Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces

Especially important for those living with seniors or young children.

✔ Sleep well & stay hydrated

A strong immune system is the best defence.

✔ Stay home when you’re sick

Flu viruses spread easily; resting helps recovery and protects those around you.

✔ Get vaccinated every year

The flu virus mutates annually, so yearly vaccination is essential for continued protection..

🩺 Final Thoughts

The flu is not just a stronger cold—it is a serious viral illness that can cause high fever, intense body aches, and severe fatigue.For high-risk groups, complications such as pneumonia or hospitalization can occur, which is why prevention is key.

With the right awareness and timely vaccination, you can stay healthy and protected throughout the Canadian winter season.

---

Pharmacist Junyoung Lee 이준영 약사 SEOUL PHARMACY | 서울약국 갤러리아 욕밀점 865 York Mills Rd I, North York, ON M3B 1Y6 (647) 350-5555