Ontario residents aged six months and older can now receive free influenza and COVID-19 vaccines across the province as the government expands public access to immunizations ahead of the fall and winter respiratory illness season.
The Ontario Ministry of Health announced on October 26, 2026, that both vaccines are available to the general public through participating pharmacies, public health units, physicians and nurse practitioners. The initiative is intended to reduce serious respiratory infections, limit hospitalizations and help protect vulnerable populations during the colder months.
Ontario Makes Free Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Widely Available
The province’s immunization program provides eligible residents with access to vaccines without direct charges, supporting preventive health care and efforts to reduce pressure on Ontario’s health-care system.
Residents can receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccines during the same appointment, an approach recommended by provincial health officials to improve convenience and reduce the need for multiple visits.
“Getting immunized is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones and our communities,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “You can help prevent serious illness, reduce the spread of respiratory viruses and keep Ontario healthy this fall and winter with our free, safe and effective vaccines available across the province.”
The government is encouraging Ontarians to remain current with recommended immunizations, particularly as respiratory infections typically increase during fall and winter.
Although vaccines are available through multiple health-care providers, residents are advised to confirm availability before visiting, as supplies may differ between locations.
Ontario Expands RSV Immunization Programs for Vulnerable Residents
Alongside influenza and COVID-19 vaccination, Ontario is continuing its expanded respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention programs.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause serious complications among infants, older adults and individuals with certain underlying medical conditions.
RSV Vaccine Eligibility for Older Adults and Pregnant Women
The province recommends adult RSV vaccines, including Abrysvo and Arexvy, for individuals aged 75 and older.
Additional eligibility extends to certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74, including residents of long-term care and retirement homes.
Ontario’s RSV prevention programs also cover:
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Infants up to eight months old born on or after April 1, 2026.
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High-risk children younger than 24 months.
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Eligible pregnant women who choose to receive Abrysvo to help protect their infants at birth.
Health officials identify infants younger than six months as particularly vulnerable to severe RSV outcomes. Children with chronic lung disease, congenital heart conditions, weakened immune systems or neuromuscular disorders also face increased risks.
Older adults, especially those managing chronic medical conditions, are another priority group for RSV prevention.
Vaccination Campaign Aims to Reduce Hospitalizations and Severe Illness
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, emphasized the importance of early vaccination to help reduce serious respiratory infections.
“With flu and COVID-19 vaccines now available across the province for everyone, there is no better time to get protected,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “Vaccination helps reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization, particularly for older adults and other vulnerable populations. I encourage Ontarians to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help keep themselves and their loved ones healthy this season.”
The vaccination rollout forms part of the provincial government’s broader Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care strategy, which focuses on improving access to health services and preventive care.
Making vaccines available through community pharmacies and primary care providers offers residents additional options for accessing immunizations.
Where Ontario Residents Can Access Free Vaccines
Residents can obtain eligible immunizations through participating pharmacies, public health units and primary care offices.
Provincial officials also recommend regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and staying home when sick.
Families uncertain about their vaccination history or eligibility should consult a health-care professional or local public health unit.
Health advice is available through Health811 online or by calling 811, with services operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. TTY users can call 1-866-797-0007.
With free flu and COVID-19 vaccines now available provincewide, Ontario’s latest immunization campaign aims to strengthen public health protection, improve access to preventive care and reduce the burden of respiratory illnesses on hospitals and communities throughout the 2026–27 season.
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