Summary of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Statement for 2022–2023

Abstract

Background: The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) reviews the evolving evidence on influenza immunization and provides annual recommendations regarding the use of authorized seasonal influenza vaccines to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Objective: To summarize the NACI seasonal influenza vaccine recommendations for 2022–2023 and to highlight new recommendations and supporting evidence. Methods: In the preparation of the Statement on Seasonal Influenza Vaccine for 2022–2023, NACI’s Influenza Working Group followed the NACI evidence-based process for developing recommendations. The recommendations were then considered and approved by NACI in light of the available evidence. Results: The following key updates and new recommendations have been made for the 2022–2023 season: 1) updated information/guidance on influenza vaccination in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been incorporated; 2) Supemtek™ recombinant influenza vaccine may be considered for use among the quadrivalent influenza vaccines offered to adults 18 years of age and older for annual influenza immunization; and 3) Flucelvax® Quad may be considered among the quadrivalent influenza vaccines offered to adults and children two years of age and older. Conclusion: NACI continues to recommend that an age-appropriate influenza vaccine should be offered annually for all individuals aged six months of age and older who do not have contraindications to the vaccine, with particular focus on people at high risk of influenza-related complications or hospitalization, people capable of transmitting influenza to those at high risk, and other groups for whom influenza vaccination is particularly recommended.