People with Asthma are at a higher risk of developing complications from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This leads to respiratory infections which are infections of the respiratory system. Respiratory infections can affect your throat, sinuses, lungs or airways. They cause symptoms such as runny nose, fever, or sore throat. They are common for people of all ages, however they can also cause asthma-like symptoms, such as coughing and shortness of breath. Respiratory infections can lead to someone’s asthma becoming worse.
Asthma Canada has developed resources outlining everything you need to know about vaccine-preventable diseases such as COVID-19, Pneumonia, Influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Herpes Zoster (Shingles).
Vaccines & Asthma Checklist
The checklist is a handy guide of vaccines that Asthma Canada recommends discussing with your healthcare professional. You can print it out and bring it to your next appointment to make the conversation easier.
Influenza (flu)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
COVID-19
Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
Pneumonia
Frequently Asked Questions about Vaccination in People with Asthma
I'm worried/anxious about getting vaccinated. What should I do?
Some people are nervous about getting needles, which is a normal feeling to have as many people experience the same feelings. Planning can help ease your anxiety ahead of your vaccination day. The CARD™ system is a science-based tool that can help improve your vaccination experience. Below are some tips that can help you plan for your vaccination:
- Try to eat something before and after your vaccination.
- Wear a sleeveless or short-sleeved top. The needle (or vaccine) will be given in the upper arm.
- Bring any supplies you need, such as a facemask and something to distract you.
- Do not tense your arm – keep it relaxed.
- If you feel faint or get dizzy during needles, ask if you can lay down during your vaccination. Squeezing your knees together may also help.
- It is a good idea to have acetaminophen on hand should you experience any side effects from the vaccine. Let your health care provider know about any side effects.
- Keep a record of the vaccine you received.
- To learn more about the CARD™ system, visit https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/card
If you ever feel uncertain or need more clarity on vaccines and the steps taken at vaccine appointments, you can ask your doctor or another medical staff as this can help ease your anxieties.
What are the common side effects of vaccines?
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever after the vaccination
- Mild rash
- Fatigue
- Aches
All of these are common reactions and resolve in a few days. Mild side effects are a normal sign that your immune system is responding as expected.
Severe reactions, such as an allergic reaction to a vaccine, are rare. If you or your child has had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of a vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider.
What if I have an allergy to vaccine ingredients?
If you have concerns about vaccine ingredients, or a history of allergies, talk to your doctor or an immunologist. They can answer any questions you may have and determine the safest way for you to get vaccinated.
Will receiving an influenza, pneumococcal, COVID-19, RSV or Shingles vaccine impact the medications I’m taking to manage my lung condition?
Vaccines are safe to take with most asthma medications, including inhalers and short courses of oral steroids. However, long-term or high-dose steroid use can weaken the immune response, which may mean delaying vaccination in some cases. If you’re on biologics, your healthcare provider may recommend spacing the COVID-19 vaccine and your biologic treatment by about 72 hours. It’s important not to stop any asthma medications before or after vaccination unless advised by your doctor. Since interactions and side effects can vary, always let your healthcare provider or pharmacist know what medications you’re taking so they can provide the best guidance.
What if I don’t have easy access to vaccines or asthma care?
Some people might have problems getting vaccines and care for their asthma. If you have a family doctor or nurses, they can help answer your questions. You can also contact your local public health unit to learn about programs that can help you get vaccines and good care. Pharmacists across Canada can also give you many vaccines, which can be an easy option if you don’t have a family doctor. If you are looking to get more information about asthma and vaccines and don’t have access to a doctor or a nurse, you can call Asthma Canada’s helpline and talk to a Certified Respiratory Educator (CRE), they are trained to help you.
Contact our CREs by calling 1-866-787-4050 or emailing info@asthma.ca
Are people with asthma at a higher risk for complications from vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs)?
Vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) are illnesses caused by bacteria or viruses that can be prevented with vaccines. Some common VPDs that can affect people with asthma are the flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), COVID-19, shingles, and pneumonia.
Getting vaccines is an important part of managing asthma. People with asthma have a higher chance of getting very sick from these diseases. That’s because during an asthma attack, the airways in your lungs get tight, swollen, and filled with mucus. Some of these diseases can cause the same problems, which can make asthma worse and lead to serious health issues.
Is there ever a bad time to get a vaccine?
Before getting a vaccine, you should always consult with a health care professional. If you do decide to get your vaccines to protect yourself against influenza the best time would be between early September and late October. This helps keep you safe during the fall and winter, when more people get sick with breathing viruses. Other vaccines, such as COVID-19, boosters, or pneumococcal, can be given year-round if recommended.
Where can I get vaccinated?
Vaccines are available at family doctor’s offices, pharmacies, public health clinics, and some community health centers.
Are vaccines safe for people with asthma?
Yes, most vaccines are safe and are recommended for people to get. Your doctor or healthcare provider can help you choose the right vaccines and when they should be given. They will look at your health, how serious your asthma is, what medicines you take, and if you have any other health problems. This helps you make the best choice for your health.
How can families who speak different languages get information about vaccines?
Many health clinics have staff who speak different languages and can help you in the language you’re most comfortable with. They may also have information written in different languages to help you understand more clearly.
Asthma Canada’s Vaccine Hub has been made possible through the Immunization Partnership Fund project funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
- Read our Enhancing Vaccine Acceptance and Trust among Canadians with Asthma and Lung Health Conditions Expertise Report
- Lire le rapport : Renforcer l’acceptation et la confiance des Canadiens asthmatiques et atteints de problèmes de santé pulmonaire à l’égard de la vaccination
WATCH: Vaccines in Respiratory Health
Dr. Samir Gupta, Respirologist at St. Michael’s Hospital, delivered an insightful session on the recommended vaccines for people living with asthma while also addressing common myths and misinformation about vaccines.
Jaqueline Murdoch: Asthma and Vaccine Champion
Jaqueline Murdoch, 75, a retired IT manager and personal trainer, is a passionate advocate for vaccination, shaped by a lifetime of health challenges and early experiences with preventable diseases. Diagnosed with asthma in 2012, she manages her condition with a rigorous health routine and proactive vaccination. Jaqueline received all available COVID-19 doses, annual flu shots, and vaccines for shingles and pneumonia, seeing immunization as essential to reducing severe illness. Having witnessed the impact of diseases like polio and shingles, she urges others to “look at the science” and stay informed, firmly believing that vaccines are key to a long, healthy life.
Lung Vaccination Working Group
The Lung Vaccination Working Group, formed by Asthma Canada in 2018, brings together a coalition of leading national healthcare organizations dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of vaccination. Focused on increasing immunization rates among adults with respiratory conditions, this group includes experts and representatives from organizations specializing in respiratory care, public health, immunization, and lung disease management. Through their combined efforts, they advocate for the vital role vaccines play in protecting respiratory health across Canada.
Asthma Canada’s FREE Asthma & Allergy HelpLine
If you have questions on vaccines and asthma, please contact our free HelpLine at 1-866-787-4050 or info@asthma.ca. Our team of asthma and allergy experts will happily assist you with your asthma control and help put your mind at ease.
Facts About Asthma & Vaccines
- For those living with asthma and others in the respiratory disease community, vaccination plays a vital role in disease management.
- Canadians with chronic lung diseases like asthma are at higher risk of serious illness and complications from preventable illnesses, which is why vaccination awareness is of vital importance to this community.
- Within Canada, vaccine uptake continues to be a significant area of concern, especially when it comes to high-risk populations.
