Dr. Schabas and Dr. Demicheli were each asked to present their view of the mass vaccination program being carried out against influenza in Ontario. Dr. Demicheli's article begins on page 38 . Rebuttals follow on page 40 and page 41 . The recent decision of the Ontario government to follow this course is a bold and innovative step. If this program achieves its promise, it will become the standard for influenza control across Canada.
Influenza is an infectious disease of major public health importance.
1 Influenza is not just a nasty wintertime bug that causes misery and lost productivity, with a week-long illness of cough, fever, chills and myalgias. It is also the cause of serious illness and death for thousands. Those over the age of 65 years and younger people with serious chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable. In addition, there is increasing evidence concerning the importance of influenza as a cause of significant illness in young children and pregnant women. The influenza vaccine is safe, effective and cost-effective in the prevention of influenza.