Ontario Protecting Communities from Respiratory Illnesses

The Ontario government is protecting families and vulnerable people from respiratory illnesses by launching its fall immunization programs. To help prevent serious illness and keep communities healthy, everyone is encouraged to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as they become available, as well as RSV immunization for those eligible.

“As respiratory illness season approaches, our government is continuing to take action to protect our families and communities,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Working with our health-care partners, we are ensuring everyone has timely and convenient access to flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunizations close to home.”

The initial supply of COVID-19 vaccines and flu vaccines will be available for high-risk and priority groups who live, work or study in Ontario, starting the week of September 28, 2026, including:

• Hospitalized patients
• Hospital staff
• Residents and staff in long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate settings
• Individuals aged 65 and older

Starting October 26, free flu and COVID-19 shots will be available to the general public at participating pharmacies, public health units and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices.

As part of the province’s recent expansion to the adult RSV prevention program, Ontario residents aged 60 to 74 who meet certain high-risk criteria or live in specific higher-risk settings, as well as those aged 75 and older, are also eligible to receive RSV vaccines, Abrysvo® or Arexvy, at any time during the year.

Additionally, starting October 1, eligible newborns and infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season and high-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second RSV season can receive the Beyfortus® immunization. Pregnant women also have the option to receive the RSV vaccine, Abrysvo^®, from an obstetrician, midwife or primary care provider to help protect their infant at birth.

“With respiratory illness season approaching, I encourage our most vulnerable to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “Staying up to date on recommended immunizations remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious illness, helping to keep our communities healthy, maximizing the impact of our public health programs and delivering greater value for Ontarians.”

Vaccines in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are provided free of charge if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are unsure about which immunizations you or your family have received or are eligible for, talk to a health-care provider or your local public health unit.

Through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is providing people with the tools they need early to connect to the care they need to keep themselves and their loved ones safe and healthy.

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