The Windsor Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is urging people to get immunized against influenza and COVID-19 as soon as the vaccines become available. Starting Monday, Oct. 26, anyone aged six months and older who lives, works or attends school in Ontario can receive both vaccines free of charge. Vaccines are already available to high-risk and priority populations, including hospitalized patients and hospital staff, residents and staff in long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate settings, adults aged 65 and older, health-care workers, first responders, and staff and care providers in congregate living settings. Medical officer of health Dr. Medhi Aloosh says the vaccines help prevent illness and hospitalization, especially for those who are most vulnerable. “It affects children under the age of 5 significantly and can result in hospitalization. The same for elderly people with underlying conditions like COPD, asthma, and cardiac diseases. The second reason to get a vaccine is to protect people around us,” he said. Aloosh says no flu cases have been reported locally yet, but health officials are monitoring activity in surrounding regions. “What we’re hearing from our provincial partners is that we should expect an early season for influenza. Maybe November, not in December, January, or February. This is an important signal to get the vaccine right now,” he said. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says flu cases have been climbing across the United States since early September, with a nationwide influenza positivity rate of 3.6 per cent, six times higher than at this point in 2025. U.S. health experts say rates at that level are not typically seen until November or December. Aloosh says health officials are also watching developments south of the border and the indications that the flu season could arrive earlier than usual. “This is the time to get vaccinated. It takes time for our bodies to build that immunity. The sooner the better,” he said. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same appointment. To receive a flu or COVID-19 vaccine, contact a primary health-care provider or participating local pharmacy and call ahead to confirm availability. Participating pharmacies can be found at Ontario’s vaccine locator website. The WECHU will also offer seasonal immunization clinics, including weekend appointments, for residents. Appointments can be booked through the WECHU website or by calling 519-258-2146 ext. 1121.
