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As Toronto enters the fall 2025–26 respiratory illness season, Toronto Public Health (TPH) is rolling out the updated COVID-19 vaccine; here’s who’s eligible, what’s available, and where you can get it.
The latest data from Ontario’s Respiratory Virus Tool shows COVID-19 activity is climbing as schools and workplaces reopen, with a 9.2 per cent positivity rate, outbreaks reported at 40 institutions, and three reported deaths in the past week (Sept. 14-20). The reported cases of influenza and RSV are much lower by comparison.
The province is offering the LP.8.1 COVID-19 formulation, and “is available right now for high-risk individuals,” said Nirav Patel, a pharmacist at Shoppers Pharmacy. “We’ve seen strong patient interest, and walk-ins are welcome. The strain we’re administering is Moderna’s updated LP.8.1.”
Both the latest COVID-19 vaccine and the annual flu shot are free to Ontario residents at participating local pharmacies and clinics, but as of publication, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has not scheduled a pop-up vaccination clinic on campus.
The vaccines are available in pharmacies for high-risk groups currently and will be offered to the general public starting Monday, Oct. 27.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is available to everyone aged six months and older. Older adults aged 75 and above are also eligible for the RSV vaccine through their primary care provider. Infants may receive RSV immunization at birth or during the RSV season, which began October 1. Pregnant individuals are eligible for publicly funded vaccines, including COVID-19 and flu.
According to TPH, COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered with flu, RSV, or other routine immunizations.
For the 2025–26 season, the LP.8.1 COVID-19 formulation is offered, which is designed to better match circulating variants according to TPH. Moderna’s LP.8.1 is available to everyone six months and older, while Pfizer’s LP.8.1 is offered for children aged 5–11 and older age groups, depending on eligibility. The two vaccines are considered equivalent in protection and may be used interchangeably unless medically contraindicated.
TPH reports that the Novavax vaccine will not be offered in Ontario this season. For individuals who cannot receive an mRNA vaccine, they advise consulting a health care provider about treatment options, including Paxlovid, to help reduce the severity and duration of illness. TPH also recommends taking additional protective measures to safeguard oneself, loved ones, and vulnerable members of the community during the respiratory virus season.
TPH continues to recommend that residents stay home when sick, wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and wear well-fitted masks in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
No AI tools were used in the production of this piece.
