Flu shot rollout begins this week across Canada
Canada’s vaccination campaign is underway this week, with flu and COVID-19 vaccines arriving at clinics and pharmacies in several regions. Health officials say the early rollout is a precautionary step as the respiratory virus season approaches, aiming to reduce hospitalizations and protect those most vulnerable.
Public health authorities advise Canadians to consider getting both the seasonal flu vaccine and, where eligible, the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Healthcare providers emphasize that getting immunized early helps build protection before the peak of influenza activity and the highest demand for healthcare services.
Who should get vaccinated this season
Doctors are urging people at highest risk to receive a flu shot, including:
- Adults aged 65 and older
- Pregnant people
- Individuals with chronic conditions such as heart, lung, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or immune suppression
- Young children and their caregivers
- Residents of long-term care facilities and Indigenous communities
Beyond these groups, public health officials recommend vaccination for anyone who wants to reduce their risk and minimize transmission to others, particularly those who interact with vulnerable populations.
Where and how to get vaccinated
Vaccines are being distributed through a mix of channels, including family doctors, community clinics, pharmacies and workplace health programs. Availability can vary by province or territory, so residents are advised to check local health department websites or call ahead at pharmacies and clinics. In many areas, same-day appointments and drive-through clinics are being offered to ease access during the fall season.
Health systems also stress the importance of co-administering vaccines where appropriate. In many cases, people can receive both a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine in the same visit, a practice intended to simplify the immunization process and improve complete protection against respiratory viruses.
What to expect from this season’s vaccines
Medical experts note that flu vaccines are reformulated annually to match circulating strains, and protection levels can vary. While vaccines do not guarantee you won’t get the flu, they significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially for those in high-risk groups.
Public health agencies remind Canadians that vaccines are just one layer of protection. Annual vaccination, along with good hygiene, staying home when sick, and masking in crowded settings during peak circulation, can collectively reduce the spread of viruses.
Practical tips for a smooth rollout
To maximize protection this season, individuals should:
- Book a vaccination appointment early, especially if you are in a high-risk category
- Check whether you can receive a flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine in a single visit
- Keep a record of your vaccination dates and any underlying health conditions
- Monitor for common side effects, which are typically mild and resolve within a couple of days
Healthcare providers urge Canadians to stay informed through official channels and to contact their local health authority if they have questions about eligibility or vaccine availability. As communities brace for the coming months, the collective aim remains clear: shield the most vulnerable from preventable illness while keeping the broader population healthier overall.
Bottom line
The flu shot rollout marks a pivotal moment in the seasonal battle against infectious diseases. With vaccines becoming available in more places and the option to pair flu and COVID-19 shots, Canadians have practical opportunities to protect themselves and their loved ones as the respiratory virus season unfolds.
