High-risk populations can start booking flu and COVID vaccines this week

With respiratory illness season fast approaching, Algoma Public Health will be opening bookings for flu and COVID-19 shots to high-risk populations this week.

As of 9 a.m. Thursday, appointments can be booked at public health community clinics:

• By phone: Call 705-541-7370 or Toll-Free 1-888-440-3730. Phone lines will be open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Online: Book an appointment at a clinic near you

“Both vaccines are safe and can be given during the same appointment, making it quicker for someone to access the immunizations that can help you stay healthy this season,” said Nicholas Minardi, APH’s manager of immunizations.

The vaccines are safe and effective for people six months and older. 

Appointments at Algoma Public Health community clinics open to the general public later this month on October 28.

Vaccinations will also be available at participating pharmacies and primary care providers.

“Vaccination is one of the strongest defences we have to protect our community from serious illness,” said Dr. John Tuinema, acting medical officer of health at APH. “By getting both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccine, you are actively preventing the spread of potentially life-threatening illnesses and safeguarding those at higher risk.” 

“I urge everyone to prioritize their health and the well-being of our community by staying up to date on their vaccines. Together, we can prevent severe illness and save lives.”

This season, Ontario is also offering more options to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants. Babies can now get a vaccine, and pregnant individuals can also be vaccinated if recommended by their healthcare provider.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people can follow these simple steps from APH to help stop the spread of illness this respiratory illness season:

• Stay home when you’re sick. Learn more about staying home when your sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue
• Consider wearing a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces, especially if you're at higher risk