Health Units Respond to Higher Rates of Pneumococcal Disease

Northwestern Health Unit and Thunder Bay District Health Unit - Special to The Bulletin

Local health units in Northwestern Ontario are advising certain people to get vaccinated against invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Rates of this serious infection across northwestern Ontario are higher than the rest of the province. Complications from IPD often result in hospitalization, and the best defense is vaccination. In response to this localized increase in IPD, to protect as many people as possible, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has implemented an interim strategy to increase access for this free vaccine for those living in Northern and Indigenous communities that are affected.
This immunization strategy acknowledges the burden of illness in our region. Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) rates of IPD are four times the provincial average, while Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) rates are more than five times higher.
“We know Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria can cause severe illnesses such as meningitis, bloodstream infection, pneumonia and joint infections, all known as ‘invasive pneumococcal disease,’” says Dr. Yoko Schreiber, an infectious diseases specialist who works in Northwestern Ontario.
“Even with antibiotic treatment, people can suffer life-long consequences from long hospital admissions or ICU stays, as well as permanent effects on brain function from meningitis, or even death if not treated promptly. Vaccination of those at risk of IPD is the most effective way to prevent getting sick from most strains of the infection.”
Based on the routine program in Ontario and the interim strategy, the IPD vaccine is available at no cost to the following groups if they have no history of a previous pneumococcal vaccine:
•    Anyone who is 65 years and older; and
•    Those 18 to 64 years old who are considered at high-risk for IPD due to:
o    a weakened 
immune system
o    chronic organ disease (e.g. kidney, liver, lung, or heart disease)
o    other chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes)
o    a non-functioning or missing spleen
o    a cochlear implant
The northern eligibility has expanded to include people aged 18-64 who:
•    Are experiencing homelessness or those without stable housing
•    Use substances regularly, including alcohol, cocaine, and/or injection drugs
Individuals are encouraged to speak with their health care provider about their eligibility for this free and effective vaccine against IPD. The pneumococcal vaccine is available year-round, and can be given at the same time as fall vaccines (e.g., flu and COVID-19) as an extra layer of protection. The vaccine is also available at clinics offered by both NWHU and TBDHU.
The IPD vaccine is not available at pharmacies.