Quebec Urges Residents to Get Vaccinated at Pharmacies Amid Emergency Room Overcrowding

In light of rising pressure on emergency rooms due to respiratory viruses and a concerning resurgence of measles, the Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires (AQPP) is urging Quebec residents to seek vaccinations at local pharmacies.

Public health officials in Quebec recently confirmed 11 new cases of measles in regions including the Laurentians, Montreal, and Laval. This marks the second outbreak of measles since the beginning of 2024. The first outbreak, which lasted four months, resulted in a staggering 51 reported cases.

Benoit Morin, president of AQPP, emphasizes the urgency of the situation. “This may just be the tip of the iceberg. The question remains: will things get worse? Absolutely, if our immunity doesn’t improve,” he said.

Individuals at higher risk for severe complications from measles include infants under one year old, unvaccinated pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Potential complications can lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia, ear infections, and, in rare cases, even death.

“The key is not to panic, but to go and receive your vaccine. This is crucial for safeguarding vulnerable populations,” added Morin. He highlighted the contagious nature of measles, where an outbreak in a public place like a school can endanger unprotected individuals.

According to Quebec's vaccination guidelines, infants typically receive their first dose of the measles vaccine at 12 months and a second dose at 18 months, leaving those under one especially vulnerable. Therefore, it is vital for close contacts to be vaccinated to create a protective barrier around them.

The AQPP now encourages adults born after 1980 who haven’t received both doses of the vaccine, as well as any other unprotected individuals, to get vaccinated for free at pharmacies throughout Quebec.

Pharmacies: A Solution to Emergency Room Strain

As flu season approaches, with the outbreak having been officially declared at the end of December, the AQPP also highlights the importance of vaccination against respiratory viruses. Morin noted a decline in vaccination rates in the weeks following the holidays but reassured the public that there’s still time to protect themselves from these health threats.

Moreover, pharmacists have the capability to provide antiviral treatments for individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 or influenza who are at risk of complications. It's crucial for patients to contact their pharmacy to check eligibility for treatment, particularly seniors and those with chronic or immune-compromising conditions.

As of Tuesday, Quebec's emergency departments continue to grapple with high occupancy levels, reaching alarming rates of 133 percent. Morin advises those experiencing mild cold symptoms to avoid emergency rooms and consult their pharmacist for guidance on home care.

To alleviate congestion in emergency rooms, the AQPP points out that pharmacists can assist with numerous minor health concerns, including shingles, allergic conjunctivitis, acne, and more.

Morin is also asking the public to assist by calling pharmacies in advance to prepare prescriptions or schedule appointments, enabling health professionals to serve the community more effectively.

As Quebec grapples with these pressing health challenges, the message is clear: getting vaccinated is a vital step to protect not just yourself but also those in our community who are vulnerable. Don’t wait—take action and get vaccinated now!