Why Get a Flu Shot This Year?

Influenza is not just a bad cold. Every year in Canada, seasonal flu sends tens of thousands of people to hospital and is responsible for thousands of deaths — the majority in adults 65 and older and those with chronic conditions. The virus spreads rapidly through communities, especially in Northern Ontario where healthcare resources can be stretched during a bad season.

The good news: vaccination is the single most effective way to reduce your risk of getting the flu and, if you do get it, to reduce the severity and the chance of serious complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, and heart complications.

Local note: In a small community like Mattawa, flu spreads quickly through households, workplaces, and care homes. Getting vaccinated protects not just you — it protects your neighbours, your coworkers, and the people around you who can’t be vaccinated.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

Ontario recommends the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. It is especially important for:

  • Adults 65 years and older
  • Children between 6 months and 5 years of age
  • Pregnant people (at any stage of pregnancy)
  • People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or COPD
  • Residents of long-term care homes
  • Healthcare workers and those who care for high-risk individuals

Under Ontario’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP), the flu shot is free for all Ontario residents with a valid health card — no co-pay, no insurance required.

No Appointment Needed at Our Pharmacy

You do not need to book ahead. Walk into Mattawa IDA Pharmacy at 328 Main Street any time during regular pharmacy hours and ask for your flu shot at the counter. If you’d prefer to call ahead to let us know you’re coming — especially during busy periods in the fall — you can reach us at (705) 744-5981.

The injection itself takes only a few minutes. We ask that you wait in the pharmacy for about 15 minutes afterward so we can make sure you feel well before you head out.

What to bring: Your Ontario health card (OHIP card). That’s it. If you’re bringing children, bring their health cards too. Let us know about any allergies — particularly egg allergies — and any medications you’re currently taking.

Pharmacists Are Trained to Give Vaccines

Ontario pharmacists are authorized and trained to administer flu vaccines to patients 2 years of age and older. Our pharmacists complete dedicated injection training and follow strict protocols to ensure vaccines are stored, handled, and administered safely.

Getting your flu shot at the pharmacy is just as safe and effective as getting it from a doctor’s office or public health clinic — and in many cases, far more convenient. No waiting weeks for a clinic appointment, no driving to the health unit. Just walk in.

When Is the Best Time to Get It?

Ontario’s flu vaccine program typically launches in late October, which aligns with when influenza begins circulating in the community. Ideally, get your shot by the end of October to give your immune system the roughly two weeks it needs to build full protection before the flu season peaks.

That said, getting vaccinated later in the season is still worthwhile — flu can circulate well into spring. It’s never too late.

Flu Shot FAQs

Is the flu shot free in Ontario?

Yes. Under Ontario’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP), the flu shot is free for anyone 6 months of age and older who has a valid Ontario health card. No co-pay, no hidden fees.

Do I need an appointment for a flu shot at a pharmacy?

No appointment is needed at Mattawa IDA Pharmacy. Walk in any time during our regular pharmacy hours at 328 Main Street, Mattawa. If you’d like to reduce your wait, call ahead at (705) 744-5981.

Is it safe to get a flu shot if I have a mild cold?

Generally yes — a mild cold without fever is not a reason to delay your flu shot. If you have a moderate or severe illness with fever, it’s best to wait until you’ve recovered. Your pharmacist will assess you before administering the vaccine.

When should I get my flu shot?

Ontario’s flu shot program typically runs from late October through to spring. Getting vaccinated early in the season — ideally by the end of October — gives your immune system time to build protection before influenza peaks in the community.

Can pharmacists give flu shots in Ontario?

Yes. Ontario pharmacists are authorized and trained to administer influenza vaccines to patients 2 years of age and older. No prescription or doctor’s referral is required — just walk in with your health card.