On Monday, Ontario's government is making the flu shot and the new, most recent COVID-19 vaccine available at local pharmacies, public health units, and primary health care providers across the province.
This expands the availability of the shots beyond seniors and high-risk individuals, making Ontarians six months and older eligible.
"Getting your COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot is the best way to keep yourself, your loved ones, and your community healthy," said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.
The public is being reminded that the shots are free and that it is safe and convenient to receive both a COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot at the same time.
"With the expected co-circulation of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV over the fall and winter, I encourage Ontarians to get their COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot as soon as they can," Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore advised.
The government believes that staying up to date on vaccinations continues to be the best way to stay safe and healthy and to avoid unnecessary visits to the hospital.
The latest COVID-19 vaccines are specifically designed to target the XBB variant and were approved by Health Canada earlier this fall.
To reduce the risk of spreading illness, individuals are reminded to wash their hands often, cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze, clean surfaces and shared items regularly, and stay at home when sick.