TORONTO, October 1, 2026 – Ahead of the fall and winter respiratory illness season, Ontario is beginning a phased rollout of its 2026 flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunization programs. Starting October 1, eligible newborns and infants can receive preventive RSV immunization, while high-risk seniors and other priority groups are also entering the fall vaccination phase.
Under Ontario’s schedule, seniors aged 65 and older, residents and staff of long-term care homes and retirement homes, health-care workers, and other high-risk and priority groups can begin receiving free flu and COVID-19 vaccines this week.
The first vaccine supplies will go to hospitals, long-term care homes and other congregate living settings. They will then be distributed gradually to family doctors’ offices and participating pharmacies.
Vaccination for the general public is scheduled to begin after October 26. At that time, everyone aged six months and older who lives, works or studies in Ontario will be eligible to receive this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines free of charge.
The infant RSV prevention program opens on October 1.
Ontario currently provides Beyfortus, a preventive monoclonal antibody, free of charge to eligible infants under eight months old who are entering their first RSV season. Some children under 24 months old who are entering their second RSV season and are at high risk of severe illness may also be eligible for preventive protection.
Pregnant individuals may choose to receive the Abrysvo RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to provide some protection for the baby after birth. Under the province’s current guidance, Beyfortus for infants remains the preferred option. In general, Abrysvo during pregnancy and Beyfortus after birth do not need to be used together. Parents and pregnant individuals can consult a doctor or other health-care provider about the best arrangement.
For seniors, Ontario residents aged 75 and older are currently eligible for free RSV vaccination. Some high-risk individuals aged 60 to 74, as well as residents living in certain high-risk settings, may also qualify.
Residents can check vaccination arrangements through family doctors, nurse practitioners, participating pharmacies and other health-care providers. Vaccine delivery times may vary by location, so residents are advised to confirm vaccine availability and appointment options before going for vaccination.
As fall and winter approach, Ontario’s flu, COVID-19 and RSV respiratory illness prevention programs will continue to roll out. Eligible priority groups can already begin receiving vaccines or booking appointments, while the general public can receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines starting October 26.
（LJI by Yuanyuan）
