Canadians Fall Short on Preventing Respiratory Illness

A recent study by Ipsos on behalf of Merck Canada has revealed that while Canadians prioritize protecting vulnerable individuals and family members from respiratory illness, many may be missing opportunities to take proactive steps ahead of the upcoming respiratory illness season.

The survey found that nearly half (48%) of Canadians reported receiving none of the surveyed respiratory vaccines for influenza, COVID-19, RSV or pneumococcal disease in the last 12 months. Awareness of lesser-known respiratory illnesses like RSV and pneumococcal disease was also lower among respondents.

The survey highlighted a gap between awareness and prevention, with only about one-third (36%) of Canadians saying they are likely to proactively discuss respiratory illness prevention with a healthcare professional in the coming months. Family physicians, government health websites, and pharmacists were identified as trusted sources of information on respiratory illnesses and vaccines.