What to know
- Ontario is offering free flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines to everyone aged six months and older at participating pharmacies, public health units and medical offices.
- RSV immunizations are available and recommended for adults aged 75 and older, certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74, and eligible infants and children.
- Pregnant women can also receive the Abrysvo RSV vaccine to help protect their babies from the virus at birth.
- The province is encouraging residents to stay up to date on their vaccinations and practise preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing and staying home when sick.
With flu season getting an earlier start, the Ontario government is reminding residents that free flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines are available across the province.
In a news release, the province says everyone aged six months and older can receive a flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine at participating pharmacies, public health units, and doctors’ and nurse practitioners’ offices.
Adult respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunizations, including Abrysvo and Arexvy, are also available and recommended for everyone aged 75 and older, according to the province.
The province says the immunizations are part of its expanded RSV prevention programs, which also cover certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74, infants up to eight months old born on or after April 1, 2026, and high-risk children younger than 24 months.
“Getting immunized is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones and our communities,” Sylvia Jones, Ontario’s deputy premier and minister of health, said.
“You can help prevent serious illness, reduce the spread of respiratory viruses and keep Ontario healthy this fall and winter with our free, safe and effective vaccines available across the province.”
Pregnant women can also receive the Abrysvo RSV vaccine, which can help protect their infants from RSV at birth, the province says.
The government is reminding residents that vaccines included in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are free for those who meet the eligibility requirements.
The province is also encouraging Ontarians to stay up to date on their immunizations, particularly children.
How to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses
For those who have not yet received their flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine, the province recommends taking additional precautions to protect themselves and others, including:
- Washing hands frequently.
- Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Regularly cleaning surfaces and shared items.
- Staying home when sick.
A full list of participating pharmacies offering vaccines is available on the Ontario government’s website.
