Region prepares for fall respiratory illness season
Waterloo Region – Region of Waterloo Public Health is preparing for the fall respiratory illness season. Further to the Ministry of Health’s recent announcement, vaccines for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV will be available in the coming weeks.
"We are working closely with our health care partners to ensure residents have access to vaccines and are well protected this fall," said Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, Medical Officer of Health. "Vaccination is the best way to reduce your risk of serious illness from influenza, COVID-19 and RSV over the fall and winter season.”
As shared by the Ministry of Health, immunizations for high-risk and priority groups will begin in phases:
- COVID-19 vaccines will be available starting the week of September 22
- Flu vaccines will be available starting the week of September 29
The initial supply of flu and COVID-19 vaccines in September and October will be available for high-risk and priority groups, including:
- Hospitalized patients
- Hospital staff
- Residents and staff in long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate settings
- Individuals aged 65 and older
Starting the week of September 22, Ontario residents aged 60 to 74 who meet certain high-risk criteria or live in specific higher-risk settings, as well as those aged 75 and older, are eligible to receive RSV vaccines, Abrysvo® or Arexvy, as part of the Province’s recent expansion to the adult RSV prevention program.
Starting October 1, eligible newborns and infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season and high-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second RSV season can receive the Beyfortus® immunization. Pregnant women also have the option to receive the RSV vaccine Abrysvo®, which can help protect infants at birth.
Starting October 27, free flu and COVID-19 shots will be available to the general public at participating pharmacies and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices. Appointments at Public Health clinics will be available for individuals who are high risk and do not have an Ontario Health (OHIP) card. More information will be posted on the Region of Waterloo Public Health website when it becomes available.
If you are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness, you should:
- Stay home
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands and using hand sanitizer
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Consider wearing a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in indoor public settings, especially around anyone at higher risk of infection
- Do not visit people who are at higher risk of complications from respiratory illnesses, such as persons in hospitals, retirement/long-term care homes, seniors, or those who are immunocompromised
- Seek medical attention if you experience severe or worsening symptoms
Public Health Ontario provides regular updates on respiratory virus activity through the Ontario Respiratory Virus Tool.
To learn more about influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, visit:
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