Vaccination season underway across Northwest Ontario
As respiratory illness season gets underway, the Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) is urging residents to update their protection against influenza, COVID-19 and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Health officials say getting vaccines with the most up-to-date strains is your best defence against severe illness and can help reduce unnecessary trips to hospital.
Understanding RSV and who should consider the vaccine
RSV is a seasonal virus that often causes mild illness in healthy adults and children but can lead to serious complications for some people. In the Northwestern Health Unit region, the RSV vaccine is available for people 75 and older, with guidance from clinicians on eligibility for other groups. RSV symptoms commonly include coughing, sneezing, wheezing, fever and a runny nose.
RSV eligibility in the region
Infectious diseases staff note that RSV can trigger outbreaks in facilities. An outbreak was reported in 2024, and there have been two outbreaks reported so far in 2025, according to the health unit.
Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines: what’s new this fall
The health unit says updated influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines will be available in its catchment area by mid-October. A high-dose influenza vaccine intended for people aged 65 and older is available only while supplies last. In Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances, the high-dose flu vaccine will be available only at pharmacies or from personal health-care providers.
How to get vaccinated
Vaccination clinic appointments can be booked online at the Northwestern Health Unit’s website. The health unit emphasizes planning ahead, as vaccine supply and clinic capacity can vary by location. Residents should check the NWHU site for the latest details on dates, locations and eligibility.
About the Northwestern Health Unit
The Northwestern Health Unit is the public health agency for more than 173,000 square kilometres of Ontario, including 19 municipalities and 39 First Nations. Its work focuses on preventing disease, promoting healthy living and responding to outbreaks across a large and diverse region, including communities around Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances.
