Starting today, you can receive your free flu shot and the new, updated COVID-19 vaccine at local pharmacies, public health units and primary care providers across the province.
"Staying up to date on vaccinations continues to be the best way for people to stay safe and healthy this respiratory illness season and avoid unnecessary visits to the hospital," says a government news release.
“By expanding the number of children eligible under the RSV program and ensuring people have access to convenient, publicly funded flu and COVID-19 vaccines, our government is making it easier for families to access care and protection this respiratory illness season,” said Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health.
The flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine are safe and convenient to receive both vaccines at the same time. All Ontarians six months and older can receive their next COVID-19 dose if it has been six months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection. Ontarians are encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional to help determine their appropriate vaccination schedule.
Starting November 4, doses of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunization, Beyfortus, will also be available for infants and high-risk children up to 24 months.
See: Preventive medication for Respiratory Syncytial Virus for newborns available
The province has also expanded the high-risk older adult RSV prevention program and has already received doses for all those 60 years of age and older living in long-term care homes, Elder Care Lodges and all retirement homes. Ontario is the first in Canada to have a publicly funded older adult RSV program and is one of the first in the world.
“Ontario’s RSV programs will play a pivotal role in protecting the babies, young children and older adults who are most susceptible to severe outcomes caused by the virus, including serious lung infections and hospitalization,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “To be well-protected this respiratory illness season, I also encourage everyone to get their COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, especially those aged 65 and older, as well as those who are at higher risk for severe outcomes.”
The risk of severe outcomes from RSV infection is highest among those over the age of 60, infants under six months of age and children under 24 months of age with chronic conditions such as chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, compromised immune systems, or neuromuscular disorders.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that causes cold symptoms in many infants and young children. Most children will experience at least one RSV infection by the age of two.
"Ontario pharmacists are proud to offer some of the most accessible healthcare services in the province," said Justin Bates
CEO, Ontario Pharmacists Association "With extended hours and close to 4,000 participating locations across Ontario, we are proud to play a key role in ensuring Ontarians have access to flu and COVID-19 shots at their convenience. This season, we’re here to support our communities by ensuring that flu and COVID-19 vaccines are within reach for everyone, helping to keep Ontarians safe and reduce the spread of illness.
