It’s official – flu season is here (and COVID-19 and RSV are too)

December 12, 2023

Newmarket – Influenza (flu) has now crossed the threshold in Canada to declare flu season and numbers are rising in Ontario. This comes with already very high levels of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses circulating in our communities, and exceptional strain on our acute care hospitals in York Region and across Ontario.

York Region Public Health is strongly recommending individuals over age 65 to get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines ahead of holiday gatherings.

“It is critically important for those at risk of getting very sick, such as people 65 years and older, to get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as we head into the busy holiday season, especially if they will be attending holiday gatherings” said Dr. Barry Pakes, York Region Medical Officer of Health. “The updated vaccine received in the last six months is specific to circulating strains will help avoid severe outcomes, such as hospitalization and death from both serious illnesses.”

To date, almost one-third of residents over age 60 have received the updated COVID-19 XBB vaccine. York Region Public Health vaccination clinics are open and accessible to ensure everyone who needs the vaccines can get them before gathering for the holidays. Staying up to date with vaccinations continues to be the best defence against severe outcomes from COVID-19 and flu infections. It is safe and convenient to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time.

In York Region, the levels of COVID-19 circulating in communities are very high and new and ongoing hospitalizations due to COVID-19 have continued to increase steadily. York Region anticipates a steep increase in flu circulating in communities throughout December and into January. This upward trajectory of respiratory viruses circulating heading into the holiday season puts an exceptional strain on hospitals, making it challenging to help others who are extremely ill and in need of emergency care.

We all play an important part in protecting ourselves and our loved ones this respiratory season, including:
  • Staying up to date with vaccinations
  • Wearing a well-constructed mask in potentially crowded indoor public settings for anyone at high risk of severe infection 
  • Staying at home when you are sick
  • Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze and washing your hands often
  • If you are at high risk and get sick, it is advisable to test for COVID-19 as you may be eligible for antiviral treatment to prevent severe infection

Being with friends and family this holiday season in a healthy and safe environment is important. Now is the time to get vaccinated to provide optimal protection for yourself and others as vaccines take 10 to 14 days to provide full effect. COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at: 

For more information on how to avoid getting and spreading the flu visit york.ca/Flu

The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to more than 1.2 million residents and 55,600 businesses with more than 615,000 employees. More information about the Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/regionalservices

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Media Contact

Joe Chawla, Communications Associate, Community and Health Services
The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 289-716-7241
Email: @email
After Hours: 905-806-1216
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