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 of age and older
- Pregnant individuals
- Children 6 months to 4 years of age
- First Nations, Métis, or Inuit individuals
- Anyone (6 months and older) with certain health conditions, such as:
- Heart or lung disease
- Diabetes mellitus or other metabolic disease
- Cancer
- Conditions or medication that weaken the immune system
- Kidney disease
- Anemia or blood disorders
- Neurologic 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 (higher risk of exposure to certain influenza viruses)
General Population
Starting October 27, 2025, everyone else (6 months and older, unless there’s a medical reason not to) can get their flu shot.
Page last updated October 3, 2025
