Posted: November 5, 2025

Kitchener, ON — As the colder months approach and many Canadians, often referred to as "Snowbirds," prepare to travel south for the winter, Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN) is reminding vacationers to take proactive steps to protect their health. This includes ensuring that they are up-to-date on essential vaccinations and staying current with recommended cancer screenings.

"We want our community to have a healthy and safe winter, whether they're here in Waterloo Region or enjoying the sun elsewhere," said Dr. Colin Yardley, Medical Director and Emergency Physician at WRHN. "A little preparation goes a long way. Taking the time to get the proper vaccines and screenings before you go is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and ensure peace of mind."

WRHN encourages everyone who may be leaving the country for short or extended periods of time to prioritize their health and speak with their family doctor or pharmacist to ensure their vaccination are current before travelling. In addition to ensuring routine vaccinations are current, seniors and people considered at a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization from respiratory viruses should specifically discuss getting their annual flu shot, as well as the newly recommended RSV vaccine.

Beyond the flu and RSV, other important vaccines to consider include those for pneumonia (pneumococcal disease), shingles, and an updated COVID-19 booster. Your healthcare provider can assess your individual health profile, travel plans, and any other risk factors to determine which vaccines are right for you.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, some vaccines are recommended for all adults, while others are based on individual risk factors such as age, travel, or underlying health conditions. Getting vaccinated not only protects the individual but also helps prevent the spread of infections to vulnerable populations.

"Staying on top of your health is a year-round commitment," added Dr. Bill Kalirai, Joint Chief of Emergency Medicine, WRHN. "For Snowbirds and vacationers in general, this means making sure you don't delay important check-ups or screenings. Many vaccine-preventable diseases and cancers can be caught early, and being proactive is the best way to stay healthy and avoid unexpected health issues while away from home."

In addition to vaccinations, WRHN also reminds patients of the importance of cancer screening . Early detection is key to successful treatment, and a winter away from home should not be an excuse to miss important tests.

Here are a few key messages from the WRHN about cancer screening:

By taking a few simple steps—getting vaccinated and completing recommended screenings—Snowbirds can ensure they have a healthy and worry-free winter away from home.

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About Waterloo Regional Health Network

Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN, pronounced wren) represents the merger of two Hospitals into a single, integrated healthcare organization. Built on over 90 years of partnership, WRHN is home to seven regional programs and comprehensive healthcare services to meet the current and emerging needs in Waterloo-Wellington and beyond. WRHN is redefining the healthcare experience through collaboration and innovation, addressing barriers to access, advancing care delivery, and setting new standards in compassionate, empowered, community-driven healthcare. At WRHN, every patient is at the centre of everything we do as we strive to improve lives, inspire healing, and build healthier, stronger communities.

Learn more at WRHN.ca.

Media Contact: Cassandra Easton Public Affairs Lead Waterloo Regional Health Network cassandra.easton@wrhn.ca 519-584-5548