Flu has arrived in Grey-Bruce. Here's when you can get your shot
Public health has confirmed the season's first flu cases. Vaccines open to the general public Oct. 26.
By David Ellis · · 2 min read
Flu season has started in Grey-Bruce.
Grey Bruce Public Health says it has recorded the area's first laboratory-confirmed influenza cases of the 2026-27 respiratory illness season, according to a news release issued Oct. 5.
"While respiratory virus activity is typically highest between November and April, these flu cases serve as confirmation that the virus is circulating in Grey-Bruce, and residents should be taking steps now to protect their health," Gillian Jordan, manager of the health unit's infectious diseases program, said in the release.
When you can get vaccinated
The Ontario Ministry of Health is rolling out this fall's vaccines in stages, the health unit says. High-risk and priority groups, including older adults and long-term care residents, are first in line.
People at the highest risk of severe flu or COVID-19 can get vaccinated starting in early October, as soon as their primary care provider or pharmacy receives the vaccine.
Starting Monday, Oct. 26, publicly funded flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the general public at primary care offices, participating pharmacies and public health clinics, according to the release.
The health unit recommends both vaccines for everyone six months and older. They can be given at the same appointment.
Public health clinics
For people who can't get vaccinated through a doctor or pharmacy, Grey Bruce Public Health is holding clinics this fall. These include an evening clinic at its Owen Sound office on Nov. 17, from 4 to 7 p.m., and a clinic on the school professional development day, Nov. 20. More clinics will be held in Dundalk and Port Elgin, the health unit says. All clinics will be posted on its online calendar once confirmed.
RSV protection
Some residents, including people 75 and older and eligible newborns, can also get a vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, this fall. Eligible residents should talk to a health-care provider, the health unit says.
The risk of severe RSV is highest among infants under six months, children under two with certain health conditions, and older adults, according to the release.
Other ways to stay well
Besides getting vaccinated, the health unit recommends staying home when sick, cleaning hands and disinfecting high-touch surfaces often, and covering coughs and sneezes.
Your turn: Is getting a flu or COVID-19 shot easy where you live? Tell us what's working and what isn't. Email news@chatsworthbanner.ca or use the tip form on our site.
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