
Canada's vaccine‑preventable respiratory hospitalizations jump to pre-pandemic highs again
CIHI data show hospitalizations for vaccine‑preventable respiratory diseases in Canada more than doubled in 2024 versus 2019 (about 142 per 100,000 people vs 66). Nearly 60,000 such hospitalizations occurred in 2024, with influenza and RSV making up over half and COVID contributing more than 40%. Vaccination uptake has fallen, with only about 26% of adults vaccinated for COVID in 2024 and as low as 63% for flu among older adults; experts warn reduced vaccination fuels hospital strain. Average cost per COVID hospitalization was around $29,000 with lengthy stays, underscoring the system impact and the need for easier access and renewed booster campaigns, especially for seniors.












