News release: October 29, 2020
Get the flu shot in Peel
MISSISSAUGA, ON (October 29, 2020)- Staying healthy from the flu is more important this year than ever. Get the flu shot, in order to avoid having an illness that can be confused with COVID-19.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, flu shots are only available by appointment and walk-ins are not accepted. When you’re at the clinic for your flu shot appointment, remember to wear a non-medical mask and maintain physical distance from others to avoid spreading unnecessary risk to others.
Make an appointment to get the free flu shot at the following clinics locations:
- Family doctors’ offices and walk-in clinics for adults and children over 6 months of age
- Participating pharmacies for adults and children over 5 years of age
- Participating pharmacies can also provide high dose flu shots for seniors age 65 and over
Region of Peel clinics will also provide flu shots for people living with housing support or in emergency shelters, those without OHIP, seniors, and children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years old. Individuals can book an appointment online www.peelregion.ca/flu/
Additional ways to prevent getting the flu:
- Wash or sanitize your hands often and try not to touch your face. This is a good first step to help avoid getting the flu.
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Stay home if you are sick.
- Disinfect surfaces like countertops, door handles, computer keyboards and phones. The flu virus can live on hard surfaces like these for up to 48 hours.
Quote
“It can be easy to confuse the flu with COVID-19 since both are respiratory viruses. The flu shot won’t prevent COVID-19 but the flu vaccine contributes to overall health by helping to prevent seasonal flu infections.” - Dr. Nicholas Brandon, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Peel Public Health
Quick Facts/Additional Resources
- Public Health authorities recommend the flu vaccine, which is available for free for people six months of age and older who live, work or attend school in Ontario.
- The flu is not the same as having a cold or COVID-19. Visit the Ontario Flu Facts for information to help you identify if you have the flu, a cold or COVID-19.
- Influenza vaccine 2020 fact sheet
- More information: peelregion.ca/flu
Media contact
Valerie Lam-Bentley
Communication Coordinator
Region of Peel
905-872-1189
About Peel Region
In 2024, Peel Region marks its 50th anniversary. Peel Region works with residents and partners to create a healthy, safe, and connected Community for Life for approximately 1.5 million people and over 200,000 businesses in Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon. Peel's services touch the lives of residents every day. For more information explore peelregion.ca and follow us on X @regionofpeel and Instagram @peelregion.ca.
On December 13, 2023, the Ontario government announced that Peel Region will not be dissolved, and that Bill 112 legislation will be updated to reflect service delivery in Peel. Services for residents and businesses will continue without interruption. For updates and more information, visit Peel's transition page.
