Is there any point in getting a flu shot that’s mismatched to the virus? Here’s what the science says – CBC

While annual vaccines aren’t always ideal match for circulating strains, they protect against serious illness

Nov 13, 2025

Influenza is rearing its head in Canada yet again, with the number of cases starting to rise on the heels of another tough flu season in the southern hemisphere.

Scientists are particularly watching the spread of a new form of the H3N2 strain that could be mismatched to this year’s vaccine.

That notorious form of influenza A is linked to more serious disease and recently gained mutations that could make the current flu shot less effective against it, CBC News recently reported.

So is there still a point in getting a flu shot this year? Medical experts say: absolutely. The latest shot offers plenty of protection against severe illness, and is particularly important for higher-risk groups. Here’s why.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/cbc-explains-flu-shots-influenza-vaccine-2025-9.6976530