Flu and COVID-19 vaccines available as respiratory virus season begins ramping up

Flu and COVID vaccines are now available to all Ontario residents. CTV’s Ashley Bacon has more on the push to get the shots.

As cold and flu season gets underway, vaccines are arriving throughout southern Ontario.

According to the Region of Waterloo, COVID-19 vaccines are available to everyone as of Monday.

When flu and COVID-19 vaccines started arriving in the region last month, that initial supply was only available for people in high-risk and priority groups.

“Following this initial rollout, COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available to everyone starting October 27 at participating pharmacies and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices,” an email from Region of Waterloo Public Health said.

Meanwhile Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public health started their flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Oct. 14.

“Many pharmacies and primary care providers will also have appointments in the coming weeks. Everyone six months of age and older is eligible, and both vaccines can be received safely in one visit,” a news release from the health unit said.

Some local pharmacists have already seen an increase in people looking for protection.

“A few people [were] asking about COVID tests, so I can tell you it’s been going around a little bit in the past few weeks,” Mina Abdel Shahid, owner of Queens Pharmacies in Waterloo Region, said. “That’s why people are asking about the COVID vaccine a little bit more this year than the past seasons.”

Shahid said many of his customers have been choosing to get both vaccines at the same time.

“The vaccines are completely safe to get at the same time,” David Aoki, Waterloo Region’s director of infectious disease, said. “We recommend that’s the best way to go often because people forget to go back, so then you end up missing one shot or the other.”

The traditional peak of respiratory virus season is still a few weeks away, but Aoki said that means now is the time to act.

“We generally see [the peak] in late November or early December. That’s why it’s important to get the vaccine now. Give it time for your body to develop that immunity” Aoki said.

In the meantime, general hygiene is key to preventing the spread of respiratory diseases like the flu or COVID-19.

“Washing your hands frequently, covering your cough and sneeze, staying home when you’re sick to prevent spreading it to others,” Aoki encouraged.

Many pharmacies offer walk-in appointments for flu and COVID-10 vaccines. Anyone looking for a participating pharmacy, or more information about the vaccines, is encouraged to call Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 7006. Waterloo Region public health can be contacted at 519-575-4400.