Starting in November, the flu shot will be available for all Ontarians through doctor and nurse practitioner offices, participating pharmacies, and public health units. 

To further improve access and convenience to the flu shot and based on demand in recent years, pharmacies will receive approximately 40 per cent of the allocated doses, up from 36 per cent last year. The flu vaccine is offered free of charge to anyone over the age of six months who either lives, works, or goes to school in Ontario.  

The province’s initial supply of flu vaccine was initially prioritized for long-term care home residents and hospital patients beginning in September and is currently available for seniors and others most at risk for complications from the flu. 

“Our government is prepared for flu season and is launching an even larger flu shot program this year to keep Ontarians healthy as we continue to respond to COVID-19,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “It is safe to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu shot at the same time, so if you’re receiving your flu shot and still have yet to receive a first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, now is the time.”

Last year, uptake of the flu vaccine by Ontarians was the highest in recent history. Building on this success, the provincial government announced that it is investing over $89 million this year to purchase over 7.6 million flu vaccine doses, which is 1.4 million more doses than last year. This includes a total of 1.8 million doses specifically for seniors.

The flu shot will be available at doctor and nurse practitioner offices, public health units and participating pharmacies for anyone two years of age or older. Children six months to two years old can get their flu shot from a doctor, nurse practitioner or local public health unit. Visit Ontario.ca/flu to find out when to get your shot.

Ontarians are encouraged to be patient as it may take time for shipments to arrive at their local flu shot locations.