The Ontario government has begun offering free COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations to all residents as part of its annual fall immunization campaign, encouraging Ontarians to protect themselves and their families ahead of the winter season.
Starting today, all Ontarians aged six months and older who live, work, or study in the province are eligible to receive both the updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines at no cost. Vaccinations are available at pharmacies, family doctors’ offices, and participating public health clinics across Ontario.
Health officials have confirmed that it is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time, helping streamline access and increase protection as respiratory illnesses circulate more widely.
“Getting vaccinated remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect our hospitals,” said a spokesperson for Ontario’s Ministry of Health. “We encourage everyone—especially seniors, children, and those with underlying health conditions—to get their shots as soon as possible.”
The new Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine, approved by Health Canada earlier this fall, targets one of the most recently circulating variants. Both Pfizer and Moderna versions are approved, with Moderna’s vaccine manufactured in Ontario using pre-filled syringes for improved efficiency.
Ontario is also recommending Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunizations for people aged 60 to 74 who are at higher risk, as well as all individuals over 75. The province has expanded eligibility for RSV protection to infants under eight months and high-risk toddlers up to two years old, recognizing RSV as a leading cause of infant hospitalizations during winter months.
Recent research from McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences highlights that adults over 50 hospitalized with RSV face higher overall mortality and healthcare costs compared to those hospitalized for influenza.
Unlike in some provinces—such as Quebec and Alberta, where residents may pay up to $180 for vaccination—Ontario continues to provide these immunizations free of charge.
Ontarians are advised to contact their local health provider or pharmacist for vaccine availability and scheduling.