Children
Flu vaccine is available to anyone over six months of age. Children under nine years of age, with no previous flu vaccination, will need a second dose.
Older adults are at greater risk for serious complications from the flu. The burden of illness in adults 65+ are mainly from influenza A (H3N2). High-dose flu vaccine provides better protection against influenza A-strains and is the preferred choice for older adults. This vaccine is free at doctors’ offices, long-term care homes, medical walk-in clinics and local pharmacies.
Flu vaccine is recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding people to reduce risk of severe illness from the flu. Vaccination can also pass on the mother’s antibodies to the fetus, protecting the newborn.
Flu vaccine, including high-dose flu vaccine, is available in early October at doctor’s office, pharmacies and Toronto Public Health (TPH) flu clinics. TPH clinics will be by appointment only.
How to Get Your Flu Shot Safely During COVID-19:
Flu illness can weaken our immunity, giving opportunity for other infections, like bacterial pneumonia. The illness can also aggravate existing health conditions making it harder to manage, such as diabetes, lung and heart disease. Flu virus can also cause severe inflammation of vital organs, requiring critical hospital care.