Every year, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital conducts a flu vaccine campaign encouraging all staff, clients and families to take the annual flu shot to help protect the community against the flu. This year, Holland Bloorview’s flu vaccine clinics will run from October 21 to November 18. The clinics are open for staff, students and volunteers to get vaccinated.

Holland Bloorview is taking all necessary prevention measures with the 'Four S Plan' - sanitization, social distancing, screening and safety - to ensure safe administration of the vaccine, in compliance with COVID-19 restrictions.

Recently we interviewed Rupinder Pannu, occupational clinical nurse at Holland Bloorview, about the benefits of getting a flu shot and her experience in her role.

Tell me about your role at Holland Bloorview, including how long you’ve been here and what attracted you to come work here.

I am currently working in the occupational health department as an occupational clinical nurse and have been in this role for the past two years. Sometimes I work in the brain injury unit as a front line nurse and as a hospital charge nurse on casual basis. 

I have been working with this organization for the past 18 years. Some of the things that attracted me to work at Holland Bloorview are the friendly staff and supportive environment that helps me to grow in my nursing career. I was very interested in pediatric nursing, and when I had the opportunity to come and interview for this role and was offered a position. I accepted and never left.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I work with a diverse pediatric population helping me enhance my nursing skills in a variety of specialties. It makes me feel like what I do matters. I enjoy developing long-term and trusting relationships with clients and families, where families feel safe having me care for their child.

What’s one thing that people might find surprising about you?

I can speak four Languages: English, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.

Why is it important to get a flu shot?

The flu shot is more important than ever as we face COVID-19 and flu season at the same time. By getting the flu shot, employees help prevent the spread of influenza in our hospital and community. Not only do they protect themselves but they also protect their family, friends, coworkers and of course, our clients.

Is flu shot safe for every one?

Influenza vaccines are very effective in preventing illness in healthy, younger adults under 65.  In older adults and those with medical issues, flu vaccination effectively reduces serious illness, hospitalization and death.

Influenza vaccines are produced to match the prominent virus strains expected to circulate during the upcoming influenza season.  Vaccine efficacy depends on the match between the circulating virus strains and the strains in the vaccine.

The vaccine can provide some cross-protection even when the match is not exact. Vaccinated individuals who contract influenza have a milder illness.

Where can one get a flu shot?

We have clinics here at Holland Bloorview for our clients, families and staff. For the general community, vaccinations are taking place at family doctor clinics, participating pharmacies and Toronto Public Health flu clinics

What are the symptoms of flu?

Seasonal influenza is an infection of the respiratory tract caused by the influenza virus.

• There are two main types of human influenza: Influenza A and Influenza B.
• Symptoms start one to four days after exposure to the virus, and include fever, cough, muscle aches and pain, fatigue, sore throat, headache, chills, loss of appetite and runny/stuffy nose.

Are flu symptoms similar to COVID symptoms?

The flu and COVID-19 are different viruses.The signs and symptoms of both diseases can range from no symptoms to mild or severe symptoms. Because COVID-19 and the flu have similar symptoms, it can be hard to diagnose which condition you have based on your symptoms alone. Testing may be done to see if you have COVID-19 or the flu.

Why should one get a flu shot when they are already vaccinated for COVID-19?

The flu and COVID-19 are different diseases so you need both vaccines to be protected from each one. A flu shot protects against influenza and the COVID-19 vaccine protects against COVID-19. Getting vaccinated against both infectious diseases will help keep you healthy. Getting the flu shot will not counteract the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Can someone who has recovered from COVID-19 get a flu shot?

Anyone who has recently had COVID-19 should consult with their doctor before getting a flu shot.

If one cannot get a flu shot for medical reasons, how can they protect themselves?

As we’ve learned through the pandemic, there are many ways to protect ourselves and others from virus transmission. A few tips:

• Wash your hands well and often with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use a hand sanitizer (gel or wipes) with at least 60 per cent alcohol.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue out immediately. Wash hands afterwards. Cough in your upper sleeve if you don’t have a tissue.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid large crowds and stay home when you’re sick.
• Clean (and disinfect) surfaces and shared items.
• Wear a well–fitted mask and maintain six feet distance.  

To learn more about the flu shot, including where you can access one in your community, visit myflushot.ca. Do your part, be a flu fighter!