COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines roll out to high-risk groups starting Sunday
Ontario launches immunization for hospitalized patients, long-term care residents, seniors 65+, and other priority groups on September 28. General population eligible October 26.
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Ontario is rolling out COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines to high-risk and priority groups starting September 28, with the general population eligible October 26.
Healthcare workers, hospitalized patients, residents and staff of long-term care and retirement homes, residents of congregate settings, and anyone 65 and older qualify for the initial rollout. RSV vaccine is also available to adults aged 60 to 74 who meet high-risk criteria or live in specific higher-risk settings, as well as anyone 75 and older. Starting October 1, newborns and infants up to 8 months, high-risk children up to 24 months, and pregnant women become eligible for RSV vaccine.
Beginning October 26, all other Ontario residents can access COVID-19 and flu vaccines at pharmacies, public health units, doctor offices and nurse practitioner offices.
"Staying up to date on recommended immunizations remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious illness, helping to keep our communities healthy, maximizing the impact of our public health programs and delivering greater value for Ontarians," Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health, said in a statement.
The province has not disclosed details on vaccine supply, distribution method or registration requirements for the September 28 rollout.
Where exactly can Ottawa residents access vaccines on September 28 — will pharmacies, public health units and doctor offices all have supply ready?
What counts as 'high-risk criteria' for RSV vaccination for adults aged 60-74?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Who qualifies for vaccines in the initial rollout starting September 28?
Healthcare workers, hospitalized patients, residents and staff of long-term care and retirement homes, residents of congregate settings, and anyone 65 and older qualify for COVID-19 and flu vaccines. RSV vaccine is also available to adults aged 60 to 74 who meet high-risk criteria or live in specific higher-risk settings, as well as anyone 75 and older.
When can the general population access COVID-19 and flu vaccines?
October 26, 2026, when all other Ontario residents become eligible to access these vaccines at pharmacies, public health units, doctor offices and nurse practitioner offices.
When do pregnant women become eligible for RSV vaccine?
October 1, 2026, along with newborns and infants up to 8 months and high-risk children up to 24 months.
