Get Vaccinated
Please use the information below to find out more about vaccines and immunization in Windsor-Essex
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly among infants, young children, and older adults, affecting the lungs and airways. Similar to other viruses that cause respiratory illness, RSV can be passed from one person to another through respiratory droplets (such as from a cough or sneeze).
RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis, a common chest infection that affects infants and toddlers.
RSV usually leads to a mild illness. However, some groups are at increased risk for severe outcomes, including infants, children under 24 months of age with certain medical conditions and older adults.
Immunization is available to help prevent serious outcomes, such as hospitalization, caused by the virus.
Visit the Ontario Ministry Of Health for
More Information on Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine Rollout – Older Adults and Infants
This year, Ontario’s Older Adult RSV Prevention Program has expanded to include all residents of Ontario who are 75 years of age and older, and those aged 60 to 74 who meet the high-risk criteria.
Newborns and infants up to eight months of age entering their first RSV season, and high-risk children up to 24 months of age, may receive an RSV immunization for free under the publicly funded program.
Pregnant individuals between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation are encouraged to have a discussion with their healthcare provider about receiving the RSV vaccine to help protect their infant from birth.
To receive the RSV vaccine, residents are encouraged to:
- Talk to their primary healthcare provider or hospital healthcare provider about getting vaccinated
- Individuals who are eligible for the RSV vaccine can call 519-258-2146 ext. 1121 to book an appointment at the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit
Read More in the Recent News Release From the
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit
Encourages Residents to Stay Protected This Respiratory Illness Season
Flu Shots (Influenza Vaccination)
The flu is a contagious virus that anyone can get. It can be serious and can result in a hospital stay and serious complications, especially among seniors and young children.
Getting your free flu shot is the best way to keep you, your family, and your loved ones safe and healthy during the flu and respiratory illness season.
The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older. It is:
Search for a Pharmacy location
near you to get your flu shot
Learn about Ontario’s flu vaccination program from the Ministry of Health
Find out what’s happening with the flu in Windsor-Essex County through the WECHU
Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness, with similar symptoms to the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Getting your annual COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to remain protected against the most severe outcomes of COVID-19 infection, including hospitalization and death.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit provides up-to-date information for the public and healthcare providers. You can access the Health Unit page on COVID-19 using the button below. Visit their COVID-19 page.
Where you can get vaccinated
Eligible people aged 6 months and older can book an appointment through:
- Participating primary care providers (Your Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner)
- Participating Pharmacies – Find the Closest One Here
- The COVID‑19 vaccination portal – Book Here
- The Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, available in more than 300 languages, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern time (TTY for people who are deaf, hearing-impaired or speech-impaired: 1-866-797-0007 )
- Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is focused on providing COVID-19 vaccine to high-risk and priority populations who have limited vaccine access options
Respiratory Illness Comparison Chart
![](https://www.weoht.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/RSV-COVID-Flu-Compare-chart.png")
Immunizations
Routine immunizations are available through Primary Care Providers and some walk-in clinics. Student Immunization Clinics through the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU). Catch-up immunization clinics for eligible students to receive their vaccine series for Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Disease, or Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
