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Immunization

COVID-19 Vaccine

Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine program has transitioned to an annual program which aligns with the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommendations where individuals receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine annually. An annual updated COVID-19 vaccine will boost the immune response and provide an updated vaccine to protect against circulating strain.

The COVID-19 vaccine is available free of charge to all individuals 6 months of age and older in Ontario at no cost, even if you do not have an Ontario health card.

 

Eligible populations – Fall 2025

The following individuals are at increased risk of COVID-19 disease and should receive COVID-19 vaccine dose(s) as soon as it becomes available in the fall:

  • Adults aged 65 and older
  • Any resident, regardless of age, in a long-term care home or other congregate living settings 
    Individuals 6 months of age and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised (due to specific underlying condition or treatment).
  • Individuals 55 years and older who identify as First Nations, Inuit, or Metis and their non-Indigenous household members who are 55 years and older OR Individuals from First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities who are aged 54 years and under
  • Pregnant individuals
  • Members of underserved communities
  • Health care workers and other care providers in facilities and community settings 
     

To optimize co-administration with influenza vaccine, the following individuals, may receive COVID-19 vaccine dose(s) as soon as it becomes available in the fall: 

  • Children 6 months to 4 years of age
  • Individuals with significant exposure to birds or mammals through interactions with birds or mammals (such as poultry, livestock, slaughterhouse and processing plant workers, wildlife officers/researchers, and veterinarians)

All other individuals (6 months of age and older) who do not belong to the populations described above may receive COVID-19 vaccine dose(s) in the fall, starting on October 27, 2025.

** For previously vaccinated individuals who have completed their primary series, a minimum interval of 3 months from the last dose may be used.

 

Starting a Primary Series?

The number of doses of COVID-19 vaccine may differ based on your age and health status. 

  • Children 6 months to 4 years of age who are NOT immunocompromised:
    •  A primary series of two (2) doses of Moderna Spikevax vaccine, administered at an 8-week interval between doses is recommended for those not previously vaccinated.
  • Individuals 5 years of age and over who are NOT immunocompromised:
    • A primary series of one (1) dose of COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for those not previously vaccinated.
  • Anyone aged 6 months and older who ARE immunocompromised:
    It is recommended that you review your series with your health care provider or pharmacist. 
     

Find a COVID-19 vaccination Clinic

  • 5 years and older:
    • Click here to find the closest pharmacy to get a COVID-19 vaccine.
      Most pharmacies book appointments ahead of time and some allow walk-ins. Check with the pharmacy before you go.
  • 6 months to 4 years old:
    • Some pharmacies and health care providers offer COVID-19 vaccinations for those 6 months to 4 years of age. Check with your health care provider and/or local pharmacies before visiting, as you may need to book ahead of time.  
    • Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has a limited number of COVID-19 appointments for children 6 months to 4 years. To talk to a nurse, call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Click here for more information regarding Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccination program.

 

 

Page last updated September 18, 2025

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