Influenza (The Flu)

The flu (influenza) is a contagious virus that anyone can get. Some of the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu, and it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. If you think you have COVID-19, you should get tested.

Flu season typically runs from late fall to early spring. You should get a flu shot as soon as possible because it takes two weeks to take effect. The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months old and older. It is:

  • safe (including for kids and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding)
  • free
  • available from your doctor or nurse practitioner, and at participating pharmacies and local public health units across the province
  • proven to reduce the number of doctor visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to the flu
  • different each year because the virus changes frequently – so you need to get it every fall

Other tips to avoid getting and spreading the flu include:

Wash your hands often
  • even after getting the flu shot, washing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds helps keep the virus from spreading
  • if soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
  • use a tissue and throw it out rather than putting it in your pocket, on a desk or table
  • if you don’t have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve
Don’t touch your face
  • the flu virus spreads when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk and droplets enter your body through your eyes, nose or mouth
Stay at home when you’re sick
  • viruses spread more easily in group settings, such as businesses, schools and nursing homes
Clean surfaces and shared items
  • viruses can live for 24 to 48 hours on hard surfaces such as countertops, door handles, computer keyboards and phones

For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/flu-facts