The Ontario government is launching its fall immunization program ahead of flu season and some people can get their shots as early as next week. In a news release, the Ministry of Health said an initial supply of COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available for high-risk and priority groups who live, work or study in Ontario starting Monday. Those individuals include: Free flu and COVID-19 shots will be available more widely to the general public starting Oct. 26 at participating pharmacies, public health units, and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices. “As respiratory illness season approaches, our government is continuing to take action to protect our families and communities,” Health Minister Sylvia Jones said in a statement. “Working with our health-care partners, we are ensuring everyone has timely and convenient access to flu, COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) immunizations close to home.” The province said that 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 eligible to receive RSV vaccines. Starting Oct. 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 get the shot. Pregnant women can also get the RSV vaccine during this time, if they wish. “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.” According to the province, the risk of severe outcomes from RSV infection is highest among infants under six months of age, as well as children under 24 months of age with health conditions such as chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, weakened immune systems, or neuromuscular disorders.
