COVID vaccine and flu shots coming soon

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Huron Perth, ON – Community spread of COVID-19 is on the rise across Ontario, including in Huron Perth. On September 14, 2023, the provincial government provided information about the respiratory illness season, including vaccines against influenza and COVID-19.

Health Canada recently approved an updated COVID-19 vaccine formulation for individuals aged six months and older. It provides better protection against Omicron XBB, the currently circulating variant. Higher risk populations will be prioritized for the updated vaccine once initial supply becomes available in late September. Individuals will be eligible if it has been six months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose or confirmed infection.

Also starting this month, influenza vaccine (flu shots) will be available for the most vulnerable high-risk populations, including hospitalized individuals, hospital staff, and residents and staff in long-term care homes, followed by those in retirement homes and other congregate settings.

Free flu shots for the general public aged six months and older will be available starting October 30 at doctor and nurse practitioner offices, some public health units and participating pharmacies. To learn more about the flu shot, visit Ontario.ca/flu.

It is safe to receive both the COVID-19 vaccine and a flu shot at the same time. This reduces the need for people to make multiple visits to their primary care provider, pharmacy or health unit.

Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is working with our partners in long-term care and retirement homes, as well as primary care providers to ensure vaccines will be available to our high-risk community members, followed by the general population.

HPPH will offer vaccine clinics for the public later this fall when vaccine supply is received. Clinic dates and locations will be posted on our website at www.hpph.ca/getvaccinated.

As respiratory illness season begins, everyone is encouraged to use layers of protection to prevent getting and spreading COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses:

  • Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots
  • Wear a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in indoor public settings, especially anyone at higher risk of severe infection
  • Screen daily for signs of illness and stay home when you are sick
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand rub
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve
  • Regularly clean and disinfect high touch surfaces like door knobs, toys, and counter tops

In addition, if you are at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19, know how you will access testing and available treatments. Speak with your primary care provider or pharmacist before you become ill. If you have symptoms, get tested and seek care as soon as possible.

Eligible individuals can access PCR (molecular) testing at pharmacies and assessment centres. HPPH will also have rapid antigen tests (RATs) available for the public at our Clinton, West Gore and Festival Square offices during business hours, 8:30am to 4:30pm, and at the Listowel office on Fridays, 10am to 2pm.

 

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