It’s the Season for Respiratory Illnesses

Huron Perth, ON – Respiratory illness season is here, with COVID-19, influenza (“the flu”) and other respiratory viruses circulating. Since the end of August, there have been five respiratory illness outbreaks at long-term care homes in Huron Perth.

“The best way to avoid and minimize respiratory illnesses is with immunization,” says Dr. Miriam Klassen, medical officer of health at Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH). She adds, “It is very important to stay up to date on the vaccines you are eligible for to protect yourself and those around you. Immunization is safe and effective.”

All Ontario residents aged six months and older are eligible to receive influenza and COVID-19 immunizations. Select high-risk groups are eligible to receive RSV immunization.

Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines

Free influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are being offered in phases, beginning with high-risk and priority groups. These include hospitalized patients, individuals aged 65 and older, residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings, and pregnant individuals.

Starting on October 26, 2026, anyone 6 months of age and older who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario can get a free COVID-19 and flu vaccine from participating primary care providers and pharmacies. The COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be given at the same time.

RSV immunization

As of October 1, 2026, eligible infants, high-risk children and individuals who are between 28 and 36 weeks pregnant can get free RSV immunization. If you or your child is eligible, speak to a healthcare provider.

All adults aged 75 and older, and high-risk older adults aged 60 to 74, are eligible for the publicly funded RSV vaccine. Eligible adults can get the RSV vaccine at any time of the year and should contact their primary care provider about receiving it. This program is not available through pharmacies.

RSV vaccine provides multi-year protection. If you received a dose of the RSV vaccine previously, you do not need to receive an additional dose.

Other ways to protect yourself, your family, your friends and the community during the respiratory illness season

• Clean hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Stay home when sick until symptoms have improved for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours with no vomiting and/or diarrhea) and you don’t have a fever
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm and mask when needed, such as when you have respiratory symptoms 
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches
• Improve indoor ventilation, for example by opening a window

To learn more about how to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including information about immunizations, visit www.hpph.ca/illness