Toronto — Ontario is rolling out an expanded fall immunization campaign aimed at protecting residents from a seasonal surge in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The initiative will prioritize high-risk groups first, before opening vaccinations to the broader public beginning October 27.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones said the strategy reflects the province’s ongoing focus on prevention.
“As we head into respiratory illness season, our government is using every tool in our toolbox to protect our communities, families and our most vulnerable,” Jones said. “Working with our health-care partners, we are making sure flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunizations are available close to home, where and when they are needed.”
Staggered Rollout for Priority Groups
Immunizations will be distributed in phases, beginning with high-risk populations. COVID-19 vaccines will be available the week of September 22, while flu vaccines will follow the week of September 29. Supplies in September and October will be directed first to hospitalized patients, health-care staff, residents and staff in long-term care and retirement homes, and Ontarians aged 65 and older.
The province is also expanding RSV prevention efforts. Starting September 22, residents aged 75 and older, along with those 60 to 74 who meet certain high-risk criteria or live in higher-risk settings, will be eligible for RSV vaccines Abrysvo® or Arexvy®. Newborns and infants entering their first RSV season, along with high-risk children up to 24 months, will be offered Beyfortus® beginning October 1. Pregnant women will also have access to Abrysvo® to provide added protection for infants at birth.
By October 27, flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be widely available, free of charge, through participating pharmacies, public health units, and doctors’ and nurse practitioners’ offices.
Health Officials Stress Prevention
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health underscored the importance of broad vaccination uptake as respiratory season approaches.
“As we head into the fall, it’s important that we take simple, effective steps to stay healthy,” said Dr. Kieran Moore. “Staying up-to-date on seasonal vaccines is significant to protect yourself, your family and loved ones and is a cornerstone of our preparedness this respiratory season.”
Vaccines are free under Ontario’s routine immunization program for those who meet eligibility requirements. The Ministry of Health is urging residents to consult health-care providers or local public health units if they are uncertain about their vaccination history.
Seniors, Long-Term Care Residents a Focus
Government officials and health partners emphasized the protection of seniors and long-term care residents as a central pillar of the plan.
“The vaccination programs offered through our government are helping seniors to stay active, healthy and socially connected in our communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility. “I encourage all seniors to protect themselves by utilizing the available programs: stay safe and stay vaccinated!”
Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care, added:
“Our fall immunization programs are critical to our government’s ongoing efforts to ensure Ontarians living in long-term care get the quality of care they deserve. Along with effective infection and prevention control practices in long-term care homes, these immunization programs will help protect Ontario by prioritizing the health and safety of residents, staff and caregivers.”
Health Partners Back Rollout
The vaccination campaign has the backing of professional associations and industry partners. Justin Bates, CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists Association, said community pharmacies are ready to play a critical role.
“The Ontario Pharmacists Association is pleased to see the province’s continued commitment to supporting local communities through pharmacy. Pharmacy professionals across Ontario are proud to support another respiratory illness season—delivering flu and COVID-19 vaccines to ensure all Ontarians have timely access to care that keeps them healthy and safe.”
Family physicians also urged residents to act early.
“As respiratory viruses circulate this fall, vaccination is our strongest defense,” said Dr. Jobin Varughese, President of the Ontario College of Family Physicians. “We encourage all Ontarians, especially seniors and others at higher risk of complications from infection, to get their seasonal vaccines as soon as they’re available.”
Industry Supply and Support
Pharmaceutical companies have pledged support for Ontario’s campaign, highlighting both public health benefits and domestic biomanufacturing capacity.
Sridhar Venkatesh, President and General Manager of GSK Canada, said:
“At GSK, we believe that expanding access to RSV immunization is essential to protecting seniors and supporting our health-care system, especially during the winter respiratory season.”
CSL Seqirus, Pfizer Canada, Sanofi Canada, and Moderna Canada also announced product contributions ranging from flu vaccines to made-in-Ontario COVID-19 doses, emphasizing the role of industry partnerships in ensuring supply.
Looking Ahead
With health officials warning of heightened risks from multiple respiratory viruses this season, Ontario’s phased rollout is designed to prioritize vulnerable populations while ensuring vaccines are broadly accessible by late October. Residents are advised to call ahead to pharmacies or providers to confirm availability and to speak with health professionals about vaccine timing and eligibility.
“As we enter respiratory illness season, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect our health,” said An Van Gerven, President of Pfizer Canada. “At Pfizer Canada, we’re committed to supporting healthier communities, because when people thrive, so does our society.”
