Toronto, Ontario – The Ontario government has launched its 2025–26 respiratory illness vaccination campaign, making flu and COVID-19 vaccines available free of charge for everyone six months of age and older. Vaccines are now being offered at participating pharmacies, public health units, and primary care offices across the province.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones encouraged all Ontarians to stay up to date on their vaccines to reduce the risk of serious illness during flu season.
“Getting immunized is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our communities,” said Minister Jones. “As we head into respiratory illness season, I encourage everyone to stay up to date with their flu and COVID-19 vaccines, which are free, safe, effective and available across Ontario.”
The Ministry of Health confirmed that receiving both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time is safe and recommended, helping Ontarians minimize multiple visits to health-care providers.
As we head into respiratory illness season, I encourage everyone to stay up to date with their flu and COVID-19 vaccines, which are free, safe, effective and available across the province.
Learn more: https://t.co/JsfL0sy5DF pic.twitter.com/Oqf3cPegno
— Sylvia Jones (@SylviaJonesMPP) October 29, 2025
Expanded Access to RSV Vaccines
This year, the province is also expanding free access to RSV immunizations — Abrysvo® and Arexvy® — to protect Ontario’s most vulnerable populations. The vaccine is now available and recommended for:
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Adults 75 years of age and older
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High-risk adults aged 60 and older, including residents of long-term care and retirement homes
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Infants under eight months of age born on or after April 1, 2025
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High-risk children under 24 months of age
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Pregnant women, who can receive the RSV vaccine to protect infants at birth
Eligible newborns, infants, and high-risk children can also receive Beyfortus®, an RSV immunization that provides additional protection against severe illness.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore said this year’s expanded program is designed to reduce hospitalizations and protect seniors, children, and people with compromised immune systems.
“Immunization remains one of the most powerful tools in our toolbox to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations,” said Dr. Moore. “Getting your flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines, if eligible, is safe, convenient, and helps protect our most vulnerable populations.”
Protecting Seniors and Long-Term Care Residents
Minister of Long-Term Care Natalia Kusendova-Bashta emphasized the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations to prevent outbreaks in care facilities.
“Our free immunization programs, combined with effective infection prevention practices, help protect residents so they can get the quality of care and quality of life they deserve,” said Kusendova-Bashta.
Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho echoed that message, noting that immunizations are key to helping older adults remain active and independent.
“I encourage all seniors to get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines. Programs like this help seniors live happy, healthy, and independent lives,” Cho said.
Health Partners Encourage Vaccination
Health-care professionals across the province are urging Ontarians to take advantage of the free immunization programs.
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Justin Bates, CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, said pharmacists are proud to “make it simple and convenient for people to get protected close to home.”
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Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, President of the Ontario Medical Association, called vaccination “one of the best ways to protect vulnerable members of our communities.”
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Deepy Sur, CEO of the Ontario College of Family Physicians, added, “Staying up to date on your flu and COVID-19 vaccines helps protect everyone — and family physicians are here to help guide those choices.”
Staying Healthy This Season
While vaccination remains the most effective protection, public health officials continue to recommend additional steps such as handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting shared surfaces, and staying home when sick.
Ontarians can visit Health811.ca or call 811 for 24/7 free health advice. More details on vaccine eligibility and locations can be found at:
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