With nearly 90% of eligible British Columbians vaccinated against COVID-19, how do you think the pandemic has impacted vaccine acceptance for seasonal vaccines such as for influenza?

Derek Desrosiers is President and Principal Consultant at Desson Consulting Ltd.

“The COVID pandemic has dramatically increased overall vaccine awareness. The sheer volume of information and media attention given to vaccines, whether positive or negative, has never been greater. Furthermore, the tremendous effectiveness of the COVID vaccines, I believe, will translate into a higher level of acceptance for all vaccines including seasonal vaccines such as influenza.”

Jarred Aasen is the founder of Lantern Services, Canada’s first federally exempted drug checking service.

“I think those who regularly get the seasonal influenza vaccine will continue to do so. Those who are not comfortable with the COVID-19 vaccine have likely been pushed away from other vaccines as well. Overall, I expect a high uptake of the seasonal influenza vaccine.”

Angie Gaddy is Director of Communications for the BC Pharmacy Association and Editor-in-Chief of The Tablet. 

“The fact that the vast majority of British Columbians have chosen to get vaccinated against COVID-19 is a great sign for vaccine acceptance as we head into a new flu season. Pharmacists administered more than 1 million flu vaccines last year, and this year, we hope to exceed that number.”