The flu (influenza) is a contagious virus that anyone can get. Learn how to better protect yourself – and others – from getting the flu.
Who is most at risk?
Complications from the flu can include pneumonia, which is a serious illness. Flu causes about 12,200 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths in Canada each year. Influenza is the only communicable disease listed in the top 10 causes of death for Canadians. Some people are more vulnerable to complications or hospitalization from the flu:
- Babies under six months are too young to get the flu vaccine, but they’ll get some protection if their parent gets the flu vaccine while pregnant.
- Children under five years of age because their immune systems are developing, and their airways are small and more easily blocked.
- People aged 65 and older because their immune systems are weaker and they may have an underlying condition that increases their risk. Health Canada recommends high dose (HD) seasonal influenza vaccine for this risk group.
- Pregnant people because their immune system, heart and lungs change – especially later in pregnancy – and makes it harder to fight infection.
- People with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes.
What can I do to protect myself and others DURING flu season?
- Get the flu vaccine as early as possible during flu season (fall, winter and early spring).
- Flu vaccines are free and available to everyone aged six months and older. It is safe to get the flu vaccine at the same time as, or at any time before or after, the COVID-19 vaccine.
- You can get the flu vaccine at your family doctor, participating pharmacies or public clinics. Learn more about influenza and where to get the flu vaccine.
- Wash your hands or use alcohol-based hand rub frequently.
- Approximately 80% of common infections like the cold and flu are spread by hands. Handwashing, when done correctly, is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
- Cough and sneeze into your arm.
- If a tissue isn't available, cough or sneeze into your arm. This avoids your hands, where infections are commonly spread.
- Avoid touching your eyes and face.
- Flu germs can live on surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ensure a healthy, balanced lifestyle, including getting enough nutrition, exercise and sleep every day.
- Do not share personal items, such as drinking cups.
- Do a fist bump instead of shaking hands.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If you have the flu, avoid going to work and being in large crowds where you can spread influenza easily to others.
For more information about the flu and how to protect you and your family, visit Toronto Public Health's website.