Most vaccines licensed in Canada do not contain thimerosal. Since 1994, all routine childhood vaccines administered in Canada, with the exception of the flu vaccine, have not contained thimerosal. This preservative is not added to single dose vaccines. (If you wish to read more on The Public Health Agency of Canada’s position on thimerosal, please visit: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/ contaminants/mercur/q28-q34_e.html)
Another reason some people are concerned about vaccinations is the belief that many of the diseases that vaccinations protect against—such as smallpox and poliomyelitis—are no longer prevalent. It’s important to realize that the reason many diseases are no longer common in our communities is due to the success of vaccination programs.
Before Flu Season
Complications from influenza (the flu) can be dangerous, even fatal. At best, contracting flu means several days of discomfort and absence from work, school, or home responsibilities. The best way to prevent the flu is to have a flu vaccination. Certain sectors of the population are considered to be more at risk than others for developing complications from flu. These people are strongly encouraged to have a flu vaccination every year to protect themselves against current flu viruses. (Please contact your local health authority to see if you are able to receive the vaccination free of charge.)
• Adults or children with chronic heart, lung or kidney disorders, or cystic fibrosis. • Adults or children with asthma, diabetes, severe chronic anaemia, cancer or another long-term illness, or who have received an organ transplant. • Adults aged 65 and over or people of any age living in a long-term care facility. • Health care providers and other people who are in contact with high-risk individuals (to protect those at risk as well as themselves).
Every year, London Drugs holds a series of flu vaccination clinics where you may receive the flu vaccine for a nominal fee.
Special Risk Situations
Many people, particularly those who work in health care, in long-term care facilities, senior residences and in childcare, need ongoing protection against a number of communicable diseases. If you fall within these groups, you will need hepatitis A and B, and influenza vaccines, and possibly other vaccines, depending on your specific vocation and location. These include but are not limited to typhoid, meningococcal, BCG, rabies, and smallpox vaccines. Your employer should be able to advise you on what vaccinations are recommended or mandatory.
Rabies vaccine is important for people at high risk due to occupational or travel exposure to rabid animals. This includes veterinarians, laboratory workers, animal control and wildlife workers, spelunkers, trappers and hunters.
Many adults are unaware that tetanus shots should be kept up-to-date. Adults should receive booster doses every 10 years, along with diphtheria immunization.
Back to Top