Flu Vaccine in Ontario

The Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP) provides a free flu shot every year, for everyone 6 months of age and older who lives, works, or goes to school in Ontario.

Getting the flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu. It also helps reduce hospital visits and keeps our health care system from becoming overwhelmed. 

Who Can Get the Flu Shot Early?

Some people are at higher risk of serious illness from the flu. These groups can get the vaccine as soon as it's available in the fall:

• Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, or other group living settings
• Adults 65 years and older
• Pregnant individuals
• Children 6 months to 4 years old
• First Nations, Metis, or Inuit individuals
• Anyone (6 months and older) with certain health conditions, such as:
  • Heart or lung disease
  • Diabetes or other metabolic conditions
  • Cancer
  • Kidney disease
  • Weak immune system
  • Anemia or blood disorders
  • Neurological or developmental conditions
  • Severe obesity (BMI of 40+)
  • Children and youth on long-term ASA (Aspirin®) therapy

Other Priority Groups

To support vaccine rollout, flu shots are also offered early to:

• Staff and caregivers in group living settings
• Health care workers and first responders
• Members of underserved communities
• People with frequent contact with birds or mammals (high risk of exposure to certain influenza viruses)

General Population

Starting October 26, 2026, everyone else (6 months and older, unless there's a medical reason not to) can get their flu shot. It is especially important for the following individuals to receive the influenza vaccine once eligible:

• Those who are capable of transmitting influenza to those listed in the high-risk groups above and/or to infants under 6 months of age:
  • Care providers in the community
  • Household contacts (adults and children) of those at high risk of flu related complications
  • Breastfeeding women
  • Individuals who provide care to children 4 years of age and under
  • Members of a household expecting a new born during the influenza season
  • Those who provide services within a closed or relatively closed setting to those at high risk of flu related complications (e.g., staff on cruise ship).

Where to Get a Flu Shot

1. ​ Pharmacies

• For individuals 2 years and older
• For people without an Ontario Health Card
• Use the pharmacy locator to find one nearby

2.  Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner

• For anyone 6 months and older

3.  Public Health Unit

• For children 6 months to under 2 years old who don't have a family doctor or nurse practitioner or cannot find a local pharmacy to provide it
• Appointments can be booked through routine immunization clinics

Page last updated September 21, 2026