Vaccine Information and Accessibility
With colder weather and more people heading indoors, we can expect a rise in respiratory viruses. Toronto Public Health (TPH) continues to provide equitable access on information about influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to all residents across our city at www.toronto.ca/RespiratoryViruses or by email at publichealth@toronto.ca or by calling 416-338-7600/TTY: 416-392-0658. The City’s website complies with Web Accessibility Guidelines and is a key source of information and offers language support in 132 different languages.
TPH is encouraging residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19, the flu, and if they are eligible, RSV. The updated COVID-19 vaccines that target the XBB strain of the Omicron variant are now available and are recommended for anyone who is eligible. TPH follows vaccine recommendations and guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health.
Disease, Testing, and Vaccination Information and Guidance
Flu:
- Influenza (Flu) Fact Sheet
- Influenza Vaccine Fact Sheet
- The information from the above fact sheets is also available on TPH’s Influenza (Flu) webpage, in the “Flu Vaccine” tab
COVID-19:
- COVID-19 landing page, with links to information about the disease and preventative measures
- COVID-19: Vaccine Eligibility & Doses webpage
- COVID-19: Testing webpage, with links to where you can find FREE COVID-19 rapid antigen test across Toronto
- PCR Locator Tool
RSV:
- TPH’s Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) web page
Getting Vaccinated
Vaccines are available at TPH-fixed site vaccination clinics, participating pharmacies across Toronto, primary care providers and in institutions such as hospitals, long-term care homes and shelters.
- Vaccines are free
- Vaccines are available by appointment or walk-in, depending on location
- Appointments for TPH fixed-site vaccination clinics must be made through the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 or online
- Health cards are not required at TPH fixed-site vaccination clinics; however, some health care providers may ask for it
- Everyone aged six months and older, without OHIP cards, may get vaccinated at any clinic or pharmacy clinic offering COVID-19 vaccines
Vaccine Accessibility
Clinic accessibility:
- All TPH-fixed site vaccination clinics are fully accessible with parking near the entrance, ramps, elevators and wheelchairs available. Staff are also on site at each clinic to support people as needed.
- Clients bringing a care provider or service animal with them will be accommodated, and there are privacy rooms available upon request.
- Individuals may request accommodation ahead by completing the
Vaccine Accommodation Request Form or by calling 416-338-7600.
Staff training:
TPH clinic staff are trained on:
- Supporting inclusion and accessibility at our clinics
- Tips for inclusive and accessible service
- An accessibility audit checklist
- How to work with clients with accommodation requirements
Individuals with specific needs who are unsure which clinic setting is right for them should consult their health care provider before attending a clinic.
Homebound vaccinations:
- Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available via homebound vaccination by Toronto Paramedic Services for people who meet specific criteria only.
- Individuals should speak with a health care provider for a referral, or if they are not linked with a health care provider, should call the Toronto Seniors Helpline at: (416) 217-2077 to find out if they are eligible.
Treatment Options
COVID-19 treatment is available for high-risk individuals to lower the risk of serious illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19 through physicians, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists both in person and virtually. It is important to know if you are eligible for treatment. To be most effective, these medications need to be taken within five to seven days of your symptoms starting.
