COVID-19 is a respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It first emerged in late 2019 and quickly spread worldwide, resulting in a global pandemic. The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and it can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces.
COVID-19 can cause a range of symptoms, from mild respiratory issues to severe pneumonia and multi-organ failure, with older adults and those with underlying health conditions being particularly vulnerable.
For more information on clinical signs and symptoms, surveillance, laboratory testing, IPAC, reporting and patient resources, see Respiratory Viruses Information for Health Professionals.
For information about the 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccines, including eligibility and administration details, review Health Care Provider Fact Sheet: 2026/27 COVID-19 Vaccine Program.
For more information about ordering vaccines for your practice please visit Vaccine Ordering from Toronto Public Health.
If you are not providing COVID-19 vaccine in your practice, you can direct your eligible patients to book an appointment at:
For regular vaccine updates throughout respiratory season subscribe to TPH’s physician e-newsletter (Communiqué). Current and past issues are available at News & Announcements for Health Care Providers.
Toronto Paramedic Services’ (TPS) offers fall vaccines (influenza, COVID-19 and RSV) to eligible homebound patients*. Health care providers can now begin referring homebound patients using the 2026-2027 referral template.
A new referral for homebound individuals is required for TPS to administer influenza, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines this season, even if the patient has previously received a homebound vaccination. Referrals to TPS should only be made by health care providers when they are not able to administer these vaccines to the homebound patient.
*Homebound Patient Definition:
An AEFI is an unwanted or unexpected health effect that happens after someone receives an injection, which may or may not be caused by the vaccine/monoclonal antibody. A causal relationship does not need to be proven before reporting. Of particular interest are unusual or unexpected events, or serious reactions requiring urgent care.
Toronto health care providers are required to report all Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) to Toronto Public Health (TPH) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
To report, fax the completed AEFI Reporting Form (Public Health Ontario) to 416-696-3492 or email the completed form to AEFI@toronto.ca.
For guidance about testing:
Some health-care providers (such as primary care providers and pharmacists) can order rapid antigen tests through the Provincial Antigen Testing Program for use on patients with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection who would be eligible for COVID-19 treatment if they tested positive.
The distribution of free rapid antigen tests kits to the public has been discontinued by the Provincial government. TPH is no longer ordering or distributing rapid antigen test kits.
As of August 29, 2025, the COVID-19 Test Results Viewer has been discontinued.
For guidance about COVID-19 treatment:
For information on testing and treatment, including eligibility and locations: