Free flu and COVID shots are open to everyone in Windsor-Essex: where to get yours
Flu season tip: free flu and COVID shots are open to everyone six months and older in Ontario since Oct. 26. Try a pharmacy, your doctor, or a health unit clinic by appointment at 519-258-2146 ext. 1121. Kids under 2 need a doctor or the health unit.
Topics: Health
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The province opened its free fall vaccines to the general public on Oct. 26, 2026. Before that date, flu and COVID-19 shots were offered first to high-risk and priority groups, such as adults 65 and older, long-term care and retirement home residents, health care workers and first responders.
Where to get a shot
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit says to contact your primary care provider or a participating pharmacy, and to call ahead to make sure they have supply. The Ontario government keeps a list of participating pharmacies at ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.
The health unit is also running seasonal immunization clinics by appointment, with weekend times, for all residents. Bookings are by phone at 519-258-2146 ext. 1121 or through the health unit's website.
Young children
Pharmacists can only give the flu shot to people 2 and older. Children from 6 months up to 2 years old get their flu shot from a doctor, a nurse practitioner or the health unit.
One visit, and RSV for some
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same appointment, according to both the health unit and the province.
Free RSV vaccines are also offered to adults 75 and older and to some high-risk adults aged 60 to 74. Talk to a health care provider about whether you qualify.
For health advice 24 hours a day, call Health811 at 811 (TTY 1-866-797-0007).
