Message from Tony Clement, Minister of Health

Influenza Immunization Awareness Month, October 2007

As the influenza season approaches, it is once again time for Canadians to roll up their sleeves for the annual influenza vaccine.

Influenza (the flu) is a common respiratory illness affecting millions of Canadians each year. Most people recover completely; however, influenza results in an average of 20,000 hospitalizations and 4,000 deaths each year in Canada. The young, the elderly and those with chronic diseases are the most at risk.

You can decrease your chances of contracting influenza this winter by receiving the annual influenza vaccination. Studies repeatedly demonstrate that the influenza vaccine reduces hospitalizations, visits to health-care providers, and deaths among the elderly. The influenza vaccine is particularly important for healthcare workers and childcare providers to reduce the chance of spreading the infection to vulnerable individuals.

Canada's New Government is pleased to work with Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness and Promotion as well as provinces and territories to support national efforts to promote immunization.

This influenza season, I encourage all Canadians to take action to protect yourself and your family. Ask your healthcare provider about getting an influenza vaccine, and have a happy and healthy winter season.

Tony Clement
Minister of Health
Government of Canada