Advertisement

OPH flu shot campaign expected to coincide with COVID-19 vaccines for kids

Ottawa Public Health's clinics for flu shots will be targeted at the youngest eligible residents and their families, as well as those who face barriers getting the shot at a pharmacy or from a doctor. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

Ottawa Public Health is launching its seasonal flu shot campaign next week, anticipating a double vaccination season that could include COVID-19 shots for kids aged five to 11.

The flu shot season will start on Monday, Oct. 25 at 10 a.m. with appointments open for children aged six months to two years old and their immediate families, as well as people who typically experience barriers to getting the shot.

In November the flu shot campaign will expand to the general population via family doctors and local pharmacies. Pharmacies can administer the shots to anyone two years of age and older, while family doctors and nurse practitioners are able to give the shot to anyone six months or older.

Click to play video: 'Preparing for a bad flu season'
Preparing for a bad flu season

Among those who can book a shot via the OPH portal are:

Story continues below advertisement
  • Children aged six months to two years and their household members
  • Newcomers to Canada
  • Those without an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card
  • Residents with no primary care provider, and those who have had difficulty accessing the vaccine at a pharmacy
Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The appointments will start Nov. 2 at the following four community clinics:

  • Eva James Community Centre – 65 Stonehaven Dr.
  • Ruddy Family YMCA-YWCA, Orléans – 265 Centrum Blvd.
  • Minto Sports Complex at University of Ottawa – 801 King Edward Ave.
  • J.H. Putman Public School – 2051 Bel-Air Dr.

Pfizer asked Health Canada earlier this week to approve its COVID-19 vaccine for kids aged five to 11. Clinical data released Friday shows the shot is 91 per cent effective in the age group.

Some residents using OPH’s neighbourhood vaccination hubs will be able to get both a flu shot and a COVID-19 shot at the same time. OPH notes that the National Advisory Committee on Immunization gave the all-clear to administer both vaccines at the same time.

Click to play video: 'Uncertainty lingers as Pfizer awaits Health Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine approval for kids'
Uncertainty lingers as Pfizer awaits Health Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine approval for kids

Sponsored content

AdChoices