Ontario Expands Vaccination Programs for Respiratory Illness Season
Beginning in October, families with infants and high-risk children up to 24 months old will have access to the new RSV immunization, Beyfortus®, through an expanded publicly funded RSV prevention program. This immunization can be obtained through healthcare providers and hospital settings for infants born during the 2024/25 respiratory illness season. Pregnant women may also receive a single dose of Abrysvo® to protect their infants from birth to six months. The RSV prevention program now includes all retirement home residents.
Starting in early October, flu shots will be available for vulnerable and high-priority populations, including hospitalized individuals, hospital staff, and residents and staff in long-term care homes. Free flu shots for the general public aged six months and older will be available starting October 28, 2024, at doctor and nurse practitioner offices, participating pharmacies, and some public health units.
It is noted that it is safe to receive both the COVID-19 and flu shots simultaneously, minimizing the need for multiple visits to healthcare providers. Ontario expects to receive shipments of the updated COVID-19 vaccine from the federal government by early October, following Health Canada approval. Initial doses will be prioritized for higher-risk populations.
Vaccines in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are provided free of charge if eligibility criteria are met. Individuals unsure about their immunization status are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or public health unit.
