When should your child get a flu shot?

Flu season in Ontario typically peaks between November and February, but the vaccine becomes available in October. The best time to vaccinate your child is in October — early enough to build immunity before peak season, but not so early that protection starts to wane.

Children 6 months and older are eligible for the flu vaccine in Ontario, and it is strongly recommended for children under 5 because they are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza, including hospitalization.

One important detail parents often miss: children under 9 years old who are receiving the flu vaccine for the first time need two doses, given at least four weeks apart. If your child falls into this category, book the first appointment in early October so the second dose lands before flu season peaks.

Side effects are usually mild — a sore arm, mild fatigue, or a low-grade fever in the day or two after the shot. These are signs that the immune system is responding, not that your child has the flu. The vaccine cannot give your child influenza.

Call us in September to get on the schedule. Walk-ins are also welcome once the vaccine arrives in October, but early bookers get first choice of times. Children who see us for their flu shot can be seen at the same visit as a parent — we are happy to vaccinate the whole family.