Durham respiratory vaccines are now available for the fall season, with free flu and updated COVID-19 shots open to everyone aged six months and older, the Region’s Health Department announced October 26.
Residents can receive the vaccines through participating pharmacies and select health care providers. The regional announcement also highlights publicly funded protection against respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, for eligible groups.
Help for residents facing access barriers
The Health Department says it has a limited number of respiratory vaccine appointments for people who cannot obtain vaccination through their health care provider or a local pharmacy.
The Region’s flu information page lists the appointment period as October 28 through November 25. Residents can use Durham’s vaccine booking service or call the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
Local pharmacy availability and age eligibility are not identical for every product. The Region says flu shots at pharmacies are available to people over age two; families with younger children should check the appropriate provider options.
RSV eligibility differs from flu and COVID-19
The regional announcement recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older and for people aged 60 to 74 who meet specified high-risk criteria. It also identifies protection for eligible infants and high-risk young children, as well as vaccination during pregnancy to help protect infants after birth.
Residents should confirm the appropriate product and eligibility with their health care provider. The broad six-month age threshold for flu and COVID-19 vaccination does not mean everyone qualifies for a publicly funded RSV product.
Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Pepi McTavish said respiratory viruses can cause serious illness, particularly in young children, older adults and people with underlying conditions. The Region is encouraging eligible residents to seek protection as the respiratory season gets underway.
The Durham respiratory vaccines announcement provides local access information alongside the province-wide expansion reported by Durham Radio News on Monday.
