Everyone 6 months and older can benefit from getting the flu shot. Everyone 6 months and older is encouraged to get the flu shot.
The following are individuals at greatest risk of flu illness complications:
Adults aged 65 years or older
Children aged 5 years and younger
Pregnant people
People with underlying health conditions such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes
Healthcare workers and caregivers
Children under 6 months of age
Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu shot
People who had Guillain-Barre Syndrome within 6 weeks of getting a flu shot
If you have a fever on the day of your appointment, wait until you feel better
Adults 65 years of age and older may be offered formulations that help improve their response to the vaccine based on supply
Children 9 years of age and older and adults between the ages of 18-64 will get one shot of the flu vaccine
Children between the ages of 6 months to 9 years who are getting the flu shot for the first time will require 2 shots, 4 weeks apart
The answer is NO.
The flu shot does not contain the live virus
Some people might get mild flu like symptoms such as a mild fever, fatigue and muscle aches. This is your body building protection.
Common side effects: soreness, redness and swelling at the site the flu shot was given
Please stay in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the flu shot
Let your health care provider know if you are experiencing any abnormal reactions such as faintness, difficulty breathing or tightness in your chest
The answer is YES.
The flu shot does not provide long term protection from the flu virus
The flu virus may change from year to year
Experts work hard every year to create a vaccine that will protect you during the current flu season
There is a possibility that new flu virus strains may develop after the flu vaccine is created. You may not be fully protected against these new strains, but you may still have some protection.
Frequently wash your hands for 20 seconds. This is the best way to prevent you from getting the flu or other viral/bacterial infections.
Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your sleeve, NOT into your hands
Don't touch your face
Stay at home if you are sick
Clean (and disinfect) surfaces and shared items
People 6 months of age and older can get their flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine without needing to wait.
In general, people 6 months of age and older can get their flu vaccine:
At the same time as other vaccines
Any time before or after other vaccines (Health Canada)
Edited June 29, 2026