NACI has released their 2020-2021 Canadian Guideline for influenza vaccination. Here are the highlights from the 68-page document:
IT’S BACK FOR 2020-21: Intranasal Vaccine
Though this has been used in the past, the LAIV (Live Attenuated Intranasal Vaccine) wasn’t readily available last year. This year, it will be available for:
Children 2-17 years old
Adults 18-59 years old
Because it’s a live vaccine, the vaccine recipient should not be near an immunocompromised person for 2 weeks following the vaccine administration.
CONTRAINDICATED - Do NOT give the LAIV to adults with HIV (though it can be considered in some children with stable HIV). See more contraindications below.
SAME AS LAST YEAR:
Offer Immunization As soon as possible (Season starts in October in Northern Hemisphere) to:
At risk individuals who have not been vaccinated even AFTER influenza activity is documented in the community;
All over 6 months old, and household contacts and care providers of those under 6 months old; and
Pregnant women
High-risk patients
- Healthcare Workers & other care providers in facilities and community settings
- Indigenous peoples
- Direct contact with poultry during culling operations - Comorbidities: Cardiac/Pulmonary, cystic fibrosis, asthma, DM, renal disease, seizure disorders, mobird obesity (BMI >40)
- Nursing home & chronic care facilities
- Children 6-59 months of age & adults >65
First Time Vaccination?
Children 6 months to less than 9 years receiving FIRST TIME influenza vaccination should be given TWO doses, with at LEAST FOUR weeks between doses.
Where should the intramuscular injection be given?
6-12 months - Anterolateral Thigh
Toddlers/Older children - Anterolateral Thigh/Deltoid
Adolescents/Adults - Deltoid
Egg Allergy
Not a contraindication to vaccination
LAIV (Nasal) Contraindications
Severe asthma
Medically attended wheezing 7 days prior
Children <24 months
2–17 years old & receiving aspirin NOTE: DELAY aspirin-containing products for FOUR weeks in those <18 years old
Pregnant women
Anti-influenza antiviral drug in previous 48hrs
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