News from Niagara Region’s Public Health Department
Posted October 6th, 2026 on Niagara At Large
Niagara Region Public Health is reminding residents to make respiratory illness prevention part of their fall routines. With flu already reported in Niagara this season, now is the time to take steps to help protect yourself and those around you.
Flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause mild symptoms but can also lead to serious illness, particularly in babies, older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
“Fall is a time to gather with the people we care about, but it is also the start of respiratory illness season. Preparing now is one of the best ways to protect your family, friends and community,” said Dr. Azim Kasmani, Medical Officer of Health at Niagara Region Public Health. “Washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, getting your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine can help keep you and your loved ones safe.”
Free flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the public at the end this month, with earlier access for high-risk and priority groups as local supplies arrive. Eligibility and availability vary by immunization, so check with your health care provider or participating pharmacy before visiting.
Flu: Free flu shots are offered through participating pharmacies and health care providers.
Visit the flu information page [https://www.ontario.ca/page/flu-facts] for eligibility and availability.
COVID-19: Free COVID-19 vaccines are offered through participating pharmacies and health care providers. Visit the COVID-19 vaccine page [https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-vaccines] for current recommendations and availability.RSV: Free RSV immunizations are offered through Ontario’s publicly funded programs for eligible babies, pregnant individuals and older adults.
Talk to your health care provider about eligibility and timing, or visit the RSV prevention programs page [https://www.ontario.ca/page/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-prevention-programs].
Protecting babies against RSV
For families welcoming a baby this fall, RSV protection is an important part of preparing for respiratory illness season. Protection options include Beyfortus, an RSV antibody product given to babies, and Abrysvo, an RSV vaccine given during pregnancy to help protect the baby after birth. Talk to your health care provider about the best option and timing for your family.
“I strongly recommend that parents and parents-to-be talk to their health care provider about RSV protection and make a plan to protect their baby this season,” said Dr. Kasmani.
Everyday steps to stay healthy
Small everyday actions can help reduce the spread of illness and keep more people well through the fall season, including:
Washing your hands often with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Coughing or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, rather than your hands. Improving indoor air circulation and ventilation.Considering wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded or enclosed spaces.If you are unwell, keeping distance and waiting until you feel better before gathering with others.Employers are encouraged to support staff in taking the time they need to recover or care for sick children.
Know where to go for care
Respiratory illness season can increase demand for health care services, but not every respiratory illness requires emergency care. For non-emergency symptoms, your primary care provider, a walk-in clinic, a pharmacist or a virtual care service may be able to provide the advice and care you need.
Visit Niagara Health’s Know Your Options [https://www.niagarahealth.on.ca/site/know-your-options] page to learn more about local care services. For a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
For more information about respiratory illnesses, prevention and immunization in Niagara, visit Niagara Region Public Health’s website [https://www.niagararegion.ca/health/respiratory-illnesses/default.aspx].
Stay informed about respiratory virus activity in Niagara and across Ontario through Public Health Ontario’s Respiratory Virus Tool [https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/Data-and-Analysis/Infectious-Disease/Respiratory-Virus-Tool].
NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.
“A Politician Thinks Of The Next Election. A Leader Thinks Of The Next Generation.” – Bernie Sanders –
