Flu Season is Near... Now’s the Time to Get Your Flu Shot!
As the fall and cooler weather arrive, they bring with them the start of flu season. The flu shot is the best protection against the flu, and with the increased severity of flu and other respiratory illnesses in recent years, getting your flu vaccine is more important now than ever. The flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine can be received at the same time and are a key step in keeping healthy this season. The flu vaccine is available and recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, and is free of charge for those who live, work or study in Ontario.
The flu shot is available at various locations across the five Eastern Counties and Cornwall through healthcare providers, community health centres, and participating pharmacies. Please see the table below to learn where you can book your appointment.
| Locations Offering Flu Shots | Eligible Age Groups |
|---|---|
| Physicians and health care providers' offices Community health centres |
Individuals 6 months and older |
|
Participating pharmacies |
Individuals 2 years and older |
| Eastern Ontario Health Unit | Children 6 months to under 5 years old and their household members by appointment only |
The vaccine is available by appointment at the EOHU for children ages 6 months to under 5 years, and their immediate family. Parents of children aged 6 months to under 5 years old can book an appointment using the EOHU’s online booking system or by calling 613-933-1375 or 1 800 267-7120. Residents must bring a piece of identification to their appointment.
This year, it’s more important than ever to get your flu shot
COVID-19 and the flu share many symptoms, but despite their similarities, being vaccinated against COVID-19 will not protect you from the flu. Getting the flu shot will also reduce your chances of getting the flu and having to go to the hospital. You can therefore do your part to help reduce the pressure on the healthcare system by getting your flu shot.
Groups that are strongly encouraged to get their flu shot
Certain groups of people are at higher risk of complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get immunized. These include:
- children 6 months to less than 5 years of age
- people aged 65 and older
- people with chronic medical conditions
- pregnant individuals
If you live with or provide care to someone who falls under one of the groups listed above, or care for babies under 6 months of age who are too young to get the flu shot, it is also highly recommended that you get immunized. This simple step will help protect you and those around you.
For more information about the flu and the flu shot, visit the government of Ontario’s flu webpage.