Seasonal protection with updated vaccines
As respiratory illness season begins in northwestern Ontario, residents are urged to get up-to-date vaccines for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV. The Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) emphasized that receiving vaccines tailored to the latest strains is the best defense against severe illness and can help prevent unnecessary hospital visits. “Getting flu and COVID vaccines with the most up-to-date strains is your best defence against severe illness and can prevent unnecessary visits to the hospital,” the health unit stated in a news release.
RSV vaccine availability and outbreaks
In the region, the RSV vaccine is available to everyone aged 75 and older. RSV is a seasonal virus that usually causes mild illness but can require hospitalization in some cases. Common symptoms include coughing, sneezing, wheezing, fever and a runny nose. Infectious diseases manager Sandra Krikke noted that there was one RSV outbreak in a facility in 2024, and there have been two RSV outbreaks reported so far in 2025.
What’s new this season
Updated influenza (flu), COVID-19 and RSV shots will be available across the NWHU catchment by mid-October. A high-dose influenza vaccine for people aged 65 and older will be available only while supplies last. In Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances, the high-dose flu vaccine will be offered only at pharmacies or through personal health-care providers. Vaccination clinic appointments can be booked online via the NWHU website.
Who should consider vaccination
Health officials encourage residents of all ages to consider the yearly influenza vaccine to reduce the risk of severe illness and to help preserve healthcare capacity during peak respiratory season. The COVID-19 vaccine remains an important layer of protection, particularly for individuals in congregate settings or with underlying health conditions. The RSV vaccine is a critical option for older adults in the region, especially those aged 75 and up, and eligible individuals should discuss options with their healthcare providers to determine the best timing and dosing schedule.
About the Northwestern Health Unit
The Northwestern Health Unit serves more than 173,000 square kilometres of Ontario, covering 19 municipalities and 39 First Nations. It delivers public health services across the region, aiming to reduce rates of respiratory illness and safeguard community health through vaccination and education.
