Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19

Protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu this season. Find out how to book your flu shot, where to get vaccinated, and how to stay protected.

How and where to get your flu or COVID-19 vaccine

Flu shots are free for everyone aged 6 months and older who lives, works, or goes to school in Ontario.

Booking and locations by age group:

• Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) will offer limited appointments for the general public. Flu shot will also be available at local pharmacies and through primary care providers.

  • Book a flu or COVID-19 vaccine (coming soon)

• Ages 6 months and older:

  • Contact your primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner) or book with SWPH

• Residents of Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes:

  • Vaccinations are provided on-site at your residence

What’s the current influenza situation in our community?

You can track local respiratory illness trends for Oxford, Elgin, and St. Thomas by checking the Respiratory Illness Activity Dashboard.

What to expect at your vaccine appointment

Checklist for your appointment:

• Wear short sleeves for easy access to your upper arm

• Bring your health card (if available) and identification

• Prepare for mild side effects like soreness or fatigue

During your visit:

• Plan to spend about 30 minutes at the clinic

• Follow public health guidelines (masking, hand sanitizing)

• Stay for 15 minutes after your vaccine for monitoring

Are the flu and COVID-19 vaccines safe?

Yes, the vaccines are very safe. They may cause mild side effects, such as:

• Sore arm

• Redness or swelling at the injection site

• Tiredness or headache

The vaccines cannot give you the flu or COVID-19.

Who should not get the flu or COVID-19 vaccine?

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are not recommended for:

• Infants under 6 months of age

• Anyone with a serious reaction to the vaccine in the past

• Anyone with a severe allergy to any component of the vaccine

What are the symptoms of the flu or COVID-19?

Flu and COVID-19 symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:

• Fever

• Chills

• Cough

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Muscle or body aches

• Weakness or fatigue

• In children: Ear pain, vomiting, or diarrhea

Some side effects of the flu or COVID-19 vaccine (like fever or headache) can resemble respiratory virus symptoms. These side effects usually appear shortly after vaccination and last 1-2 days. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

How can you prevent the flu and COVID-19?

Follow these steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community:

• Get a vaccine every year

• Wash your hands often with soap and water

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

• Stay home when you are sick

For more details, visit the Ontario Flu Facts page.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I get a flu or COVID-19 vaccine for my child under 5?

Public health offers limited appointments for children under 5 who cannot access a pharmacy. Book an appointment today.

Who should not get the flu or COVID-19 vaccine?

Infants under 6 months of age and anyone with a severe allergy to the vaccine components or a history of severe reactions to the vaccines should not get vaccinated.

Additional resources

• Fall respiratory vaccine Information for Health Care Providers (coming soon)

• Fall respiratory vaccine Influenza Information for Long Term Care Homes (coming soon)

• Ontario Flu Facts