2026/2027 flu season

Book your flu shot at DrugSmart Pharmacy, Toronto Pearson

The flu shot is free for anyone 6 months and older who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario. Pharmacists vaccinate ages 2 and up, and your appointment takes just a few minutes.

Book your flu shot → Other DrugSmart locations

• FreePublicly funded in Ontario. No health card needed.
• Ages 2 and upOur pharmacists can vaccinate children from 2 years old.
• QuickBook online and pick a time that suits you.

Where to book

How it works

1. Book

   Choose a time that suits you using the online calendar.

2. Visit

   Bring proof that you live, work or go to school in Ontario, if you have it. A health card is not required.

3. Get your shot

   Your pharmacist asks a few quick health questions, then gives your shot. Protection builds over about two weeks.

Where to get the flu shot by age

Children under 9 getting their first-ever flu vaccine need 2 doses, at least 4 weeks apart. Everyone else needs 1 dose each season.

Who should get it as early as possible

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months and older who has no contraindication. It matters most for people at higher risk of complications, people who can pass the flu to them, and people who provide essential community services. Higher-risk groups include:

• Adults 65 and older
• Pregnant individuals
• Children 6 months to 4 years
• First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, and their household members
• Residents of long-term care, retirement homes and other congregate living settings
• Health care workers and first responders
• People 6 months and older with: cardiac or pulmonary disorders; diabetes or other metabolic disease; cancer; conditions or medications that weaken the immune system; kidney disease; anemia or hemoglobinopathy; neurologic or neurodevelopmental conditions; severe obesity (BMI of 40 or more); or children and teens (6 months to 18 years) on long-term acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) treatment

Why get your flu shot

• It's safe. That includes children, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• It's free. Ontario's Universal Influenza Immunization Program covers everyone 6 months and older who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario.
• It helps protect you and others. The flu shot reduces doctor visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to the flu.
• It changes every year. The virus changes often, so you need a new shot each fall.

Flu season usually runs from late fall to early spring. Get your shot as soon as you can, because it takes about two weeks to take full effect.

Flu shot questions

How else can I avoid getting and spreading the flu?

• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 15 seconds. If you don't have them, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue and throw it out. If you don't have one, cough into your upper sleeve.
• Don't touch your face. The virus enters through your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Stay home when you're sick. Viruses spread easily in workplaces, schools and care homes.
• Clean shared surfaces. Viruses can live for 24 to 48 hours on counters, door handles, keyboards and phones.

Learn more flu facts on Ontario.ca

Ready for your flu shot?

Book a quick appointment at Toronto Pearson, or contact your local DrugSmart.

Book your flu shot →Find a DrugSmart near you

This page is for general information and does not replace advice from your pharmacist or doctor. Eligibility and program details are set by the Ontario Ministry of Health and can change.