This fall, updated immunization campaigns against COVID-19 and seasonal flu were launched across Canada.
Health Canada has approved new mRNA vaccines adapted to current variants of the coronavirus, and provinces and territories are already rolling out vaccinations through pharmacies, public health clinics, and family doctors.
🧑⚕️ What's new this season
🔸 Updates to the composition of COVID-19 vaccines
For the 2025–2026 season, the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) and Moderna (Spikevax) mRNA vaccines are targeting the LP.8.1 (JN.1 lineage) subvariant, which is currently the most prevalent in circulation.
This update is intended to provide better protection against severe disease and complications.
🔸 Single-dose vials and wide availability
Provinces are rolling out distribution in stages: first for high-risk groups, then for all residents aged 6 months and older.
For example, in Ottawa, general access began on October 27, 2025.
💉 What vaccines are available
COVID-19
- Updated mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna for individuals aged 6 months and older.
- There is no advantage between the brands — both vaccines are considered equally effective.
Influenza
- Seasonal inactivated/recombinant vaccines 2025–2026.
- The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends getting vaccinated as soon as possible in the fall, as influenza virus activity can begin as early as October.
✅ Who is recommended first
According to NACI recommendations, a dose of the COVID vaccine is mandatory for people aged 6 months and older who:
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live in long-term care facilities or dormitories;
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have chronic diseases with an increased risk of severe COVID-19;
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are pregnant;
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belong to First Nations, Inuit, or Métis communities;
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work in health care or caregiving;
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belong to racialized or other marginalized groups.
Other individuals aged 6 months and older can receive an updated dose if they wish. For people over 80 years of age or immunocompromised, NATI recommends a second dose per year.
🕒 When to get vaccinated
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Provinces are opening registration in waves: first for priority groups, then for everyone (example: Ontario).
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It is recommended to wait 3 months after the previous dose or after recovering from COVID-19.
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Always check local guidelines on your province or city's website.
💉 Can the flu and COVID-19 vaccines be combined?
Yes. Canadian protocols allow co-administration — flu vaccines can be given on the same day or anytime before/after the COVID vaccine. In many provinces, you can also get the RSV vaccine at the same time (for eligible individuals).
💰 Cost of vaccination
In most provinces, COVID-19 vaccination is free for the 2025–2026 season.
⚠️ Exceptions:
- Alberta — $100 if you are not in a high-risk group (through Blue Cross or public clinics).
- Quebec — $150–$180 for those who are not in a high-risk group.
Check the current rules in your province or on the website of your local health authorities.
📍 Where to get vaccinated
- Pharmacies
- Public health clinics
- Family doctors
Most provinces have online location search and appointment booking systems. For example, Ontario has a single search engine for pharmacies, and cities such as Ottawa announce the first waves of vaccination for priority groups separately.
💪 Why you should get vaccinated right now
The updated doses target strains that are actually circulating in the fall of 2025 and significantly increase antibody levels. Experts emphasize that vaccination
- reduces the risk of hospitalization and death,
- lowers the likelihood of prolonged COVID-19,
- protects the most vulnerable members of the community.
🧭 Practical tips
- 🔹 Check your local vaccination schedule — provincial websites regularly update dates.
- 🔹 Combine your visit: get your COVID-19 and flu shots at the same time.
- 🔹 Follow the recommended interval after your previous vaccination or illness.
- 🔹 Check for discounts: vaccinations are free in most provinces.
🌿 Conclusion
Fall is the best time to take care of your health. Updated vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza help maintain immunity, avoid serious consequences, and support community safety. Vaccination is a simple step that really works 💉