Ontario health officials urge vaccination as respiratory illness season begins

Public health authorities in Hamilton and Ottawa are urging residents to take preventative measures as the season for respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, begins to rise.

In Hamilton, health officials recommend wearing well-fitted masks in indoor public settings, frequent handwashing, and staying home when unwell. Vaccines for flu and COVID-19 will be available to all residents through pharmacies and primary care physicians starting October 26. Priority is being given to high-risk groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and residents of long-term care facilities.

Similarly, Ottawa Public Health has announced that COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available starting October 26 to everyone aged six months and older who lives, works, or attends school in Ontario. Officials noted that COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be safely administered during the same appointment. Ottawa is also providing specific vaccine access for eligible populations facing barriers, such as newcomers without OHIP and children under age five.