In North America, influenza season occurs every year between December and April. The goal of influenza immunization campaigns is to prevent serious illness caused by influenza and its complications.

Each year’s flu vaccine is developed based on the viruses that were prevalent the year before. It is necessary to receive a flu shot each year to protect you against the current strain of viruses. November is the ideal time to receive the flu shot as it takes at least two weeks for your body to develop antibodies.

Influenza is a highly contagious infection spread by droplet infection – secretions from the nose or throat of infected persons. It can also be passed on by objects contaminated by secretions produced by coughing, sneezing and even talking. Someone with influenza can transmit the disease from the day before they develop symptoms and are infectious for a week after symptoms first appear.

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