The Ontario government is launching a phased rollout of its fall immunization programs in an effort to protect families and vulnerable people from respiratory illnesses.
The province said immunizations will first be made available to high-risk and priority groups, such as residents and staff in long-term care homes, individuals aged 65 and older, as well as hospital staff and patients. Those groups will be able to access the COVID-19 vaccine beginning the week of September 22, while the flu vaccine will become available the week of September 29.
“As we head into the fall, it’s important that we take simple, effective steps to stay healthy,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, in a news release. “Staying up-to-date on seasonal vaccines is significant to protect yourself, your family and loved ones and is a cornerstone of our preparedness this respiratory season.”
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, will also be eligible to receive RSV vaccines beginning the week of September 22.
Starting October 1, eligible newborns and infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season, along with high-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second RSV season, can receive the RSV vaccine. The option will also be made available to pregnant women to help protect infants at birth.
Free flu and COVID-19 shots will then be made available to the general public starting on October 27. The vaccines will be offered through participating pharmacies, some public health units, and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices.
Health officials are encouraging everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they become eligible to help prevent the spread of serious illnesses.