Toronto/IBNS: Ontarians will be able to receive free flu shots and the new COVID-19 vaccine, approved by Health Canada, at local pharmacies, public health units and primary health care providers across the province starting Monday.

“Our government is ensuring you have access to the tools you need this fall respiratory season by making COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots available in convenient locations close to home, at no cost to Ontarians,” Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health has said in a news release.

All Ontarians six months and older can receive their next COVID-19 dose if it has been a recommended six months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection.

“With the expected co-circulation of influenza, COVID-19 and RSV over the fall and winter, I encourage Ontarians to get their COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot as soon as they can,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health.

“Especially those who are elderly, immunocompromised, or have medical conditions that make you particularly susceptible to harm from respiratory illnesses.”

Individuals have been advised to wash their hands often, cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze, clean surfaces and shared items regularly and stay at home when sick to reduce the risk of spreading illness.

The Ontario government is ensuring through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the availability of the tools this fall and winter to communities across the province for their health and safety while ensuring hospital beds are available for those who need them most.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)