Canada's Respiratory Illness Vaccination Gap

As Canadians observe Immunization Awareness Month, new data from Merck Canada's latest Pulse Report reveals a significant gap between intention and action when it comes to protecting against respiratory illnesses. Conducted by Ipsos, the survey involved 1,000 participants aged 25-75 and found that nearly half (48%) reported not receiving any of the surveyed respiratory vaccines in the past year.

The report highlights a disconnect between Canadians' willingness to protect vulnerable individuals and their actual vaccination habits. While 98% of respondents were familiar with influenza and COVID-19, only 71% knew about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and 66% about pneumococcal disease. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds (64%) said they were unlikely or unsure whether they would proactively discuss respiratory illnesses and prevention strategies with a healthcare professional in the next six months.

Matthew Thornhill, Executive Director of Merck Canada's Vaccines & HIV Business Unit, emphasized that Canadians understand the importance of protecting those around them but require more awareness and informed conversations about respiratory health. He added that family physicians, pharmacists, and government health websites remain trusted sources of information for Canadians.