Public Health urges protection this fall respiratory illness season

HAMILTON, ON – As the fall respiratory illness season approaches, Hamilton Public Health Services is urging residents to protect themselves, their families and the community by staying up to date on recommended immunizations and using layers of protection. With the spread of respiratory illnesses expected to rise as residents spend more time indoors, a multi-layered approach to prevention and care can help to keep the community healthy and reduce strain on local healthcare systems.

“Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect against serious illness,” said Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton. “This fall, we encourage everyone, especially parents, older adults and those at higher risk of severe illness to talk to their healthcare provider about what immunizations are right for them.”

Influenza and COVID-19

Vaccines are currently available for individuals at higher risk of complications from respiratory infections including hospitalized patients, long-term care and retirement home residents and staff as well as adults 65 years of age and older. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the public across Hamilton beginning October 27, 2025, at participating pharmacies and from healthcare providers. If you are having trouble accessing publicly funded vaccines, please visit www.hamilton.ca/FallVaccineClinics or call 905-546-2424 ext. 7556. Pharmacies in Hamilton providing COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be found at ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a common respiratory virus that causes illness during the fall and winter months. Most people who get an RSV infection will have mild illness and will recover without the need for medical attention or treatment. However, for some people, RSV may result in severe infections. This is particularly true for babies, young children and older adults.

This year, the Province of Ontario has expanded access to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunizations:

• Adults aged 75 and older and certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74 are eligible for RSV vaccines (Arexvy or Abrysvo™).
• Pregnant individuals may receive Abrysvo™ during the third trimester (32–36 weeks) to help protect their newborns.
• Infants up to eight months old entering their first RSV season and high-risk children up to 24 months entering their second season are eligible for the Beyfortus® immunization.

RSV vaccines are available to adults aged 60 years and older who are at higher risk of severe RSV disease and all adults aged 75 and older. Find out if you are eligible for the publicly funded RSV vaccine at www.hamilton.ca/RSV.

Layers of Protection

Hamilton Public Health Services reminds residents to use layers of protection to reduce the spread of viruses:

• Get vaccinated: Influenza and updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available to everyone over six months of age as of October 27, 2025. Some adults 60 years and older are also eligible for RSV vaccines. It is both safe and recommended to receive these respiratory vaccines at the same time.
• Stay home when sick: If you feel unwell and are experiencing symptoms such as new or increased coughing, fever, or fatigue, stay home to prevent spreading illness. Monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical care, if necessary, especially if you are in a high-risk group.
• Practice good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette: Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face and mouth. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and dispose of used tissues immediately.
• Clean high-touch surfaces regularly: countertops, door handles, computer keyboards and phones 
• Masking: Wear a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in indoor public spaces, especially if you are at higher risk of severe illness. Visitors and patients should follow any requirements for masking in hospitals, long-term care homes and other health care spaces.
• Spend time outdoors: Avoid spending time in crowded rooms and choose well-ventilated indoor spaces.
• Access healthcare resources: Individuals at high-risk of serious infection eligible for antiviral treatment for COVID-19 or influenza are encouraged to speak to their healthcare provider to access testing and discuss antiviral treatment options.

For more information about eligibility, vaccine availability, and resources, visit www.hamilton.ca/publichealth or call 905-546-2424 ext. 7556.

Quick Facts:

• Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can be safely given at the same time, along with RSV immunizations for those eligible.
• You can monitor respiratory virus transmission in Hamilton by visiting Hamilton’s Respiratory Virus Data web page.