The days are getting cooler, and that means the flu season is coming.

The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) urges all residents to schedule some time to get their vaccinations updated against the flu, COVID-19, and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

“Compared to previous years, the flu has started making its rounds earlier than usual,” stated Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, EOHU chief medical officer, in a press release, “and we expect RSV infections to rise over the next few weeks, while COVID-19 circulates year-round. As always, I believe the best preventive measure people can take to protect themselves throughout the season is to ensure they receive the vaccines they are eligible for.”

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available free of charge at EOHU offices, local pharmacies, and at doctors’ offices throughout Eastern Ontario.

Both vaccines are recommended for individuals from the age of six months and older. The RSV vaccine is also available free to eligible individuals.

Those most vulnerable to flu and COVID-19 include children between the ages of six months to five years old, seniors, people with chronic medical conditions or who have weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. Caregivers should also get their inoculations.

Seniors are eligible to get the RSV vaccine at no cost through the provincial RSV prevention program. The RSV vaccine, Beyfortus, is also available for inoculating newborns and infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season, and high-risk children up to the age of 24 months in their second RSV season.

More information on the regional vaccination program is available from the EOHU at www.eohu.ca or phone 1-800-267-7120.