Toronto’s Latest COVID-19 Vaccine: Essential Information You Need to Know

October 26, 2025

Toronto Public Health Is distributing the updated COVID-19 vaccine as the city heads into the fall and winter respiratory illness season. Eligibility, available vaccine types, and locations for vaccination are outlined below.

Rising Respiratory Virus Activity in Toronto

Data from Ontario’s Respiratory Virus tool indicates a recent increase in COVID-19 activity following the reopening of schools and workplaces. As of the week of September 14-20, the positivity rate reached 9.2 percent, with outbreaks reported at 40 institutions and three confirmed deaths. Reported cases of influenza and RSV currently remain substantially lower.

Available Vaccines and eligibility

The province is currently offering the LP.8.1 COVID-19 formulation, with priority given to high-risk individuals. pharmacists, such as Nirav Patel at shoppers Pharmacy, report strong patient interest and welcome walk-in appointments. Moderna’s updated LP.8.1 vaccine is the primary strain being administered.

Both the updated COVID-19 vaccine and the annual flu shot are accessible to all Ontario residents free of charge at participating pharmacies and clinics. However, as of today, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has not announced plans for an on-campus pop-up vaccination clinic.

The updated COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for individuals six months of age and older. Additional recommendations include:

• Adults 75 years and older are eligible for the RSV vaccine through their primary healthcare provider.
• Infants can receive RSV immunization at birth or during the RSV season, which began October 1.
• Pregnant individuals are eligible for publicly funded COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

Toronto Public Health confirms that COVID-19 vaccines can be administered together with flu, RSV, or other routine immunizations.

Vaccine Options: Moderna vs. pfizer

For the 2025-26 season, the LP.8.1 COVID-19 vaccine is designed to target currently circulating variants. Moderna’s LP.8.1 is available for all individuals aged six months and older. Pfizer’s LP.8.1 vaccine is offered for children aged 5-11 and select older age groups, based on eligibility criteria. Health authorities state that both vaccines provide comparable protection and can be used interchangeably, unless a medical contraindication exists.

The Novavax vaccine will not be available in Ontario this season. Individuals with medical reasons preventing them from receiving mRNA vaccines are advised to consult their healthcare provider for alternative treatment options like Paxlovid, which can lessen the severity and duration of illness. Toronto Public Health stresses the importance of taking preventative measures to protect yourself and the community.

Additional Protective Measures

Toronto Public Health continues to advocate for consistent preventative actions. Residents are encouraged to stay home when experiencing symptoms, practice frequent handwashing, cover coughs and sneezes, and wear well-fitted masks in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings.

Vaccine Type	Age Group	Availability
moderna LP.8.1	6 months +	Currently Available
Pfizer LP.8.1	5-11 years & eligible older adults	Currently Available
Novavax	All ages	Not Available this Season

Did You Know? Respiratory viruses, like COVID-19, Flu, and RSV, are most prevalent during the fall and winter months. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and others.

Pro Tip: Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for specific availability of vaccines and appointment scheduling.

Are you planning to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine this season? What factors are influencing your decision?

Understanding COVID-19 Vaccine Updates

COVID-19 vaccines are regularly updated to address evolving virus variants. The LP.8.1 formulation is designed to provide enhanced protection against currently circulating strains. Staying informed about vaccine recommendations is crucial for maintaining optimal immunity.The CDC provides updated guidance on COVID-19 vaccination: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html. It is crucial to note that the recommendations and availability of vaccines can change, so consulting with a healthcare professional is always advisable.

frequently Asked Questions About the COVID-19 Vaccine

1. What is the LP.8.1 COVID-19 vaccine? The LP.8.1 vaccine is an updated formulation designed to target currently circulating COVID-19 variants.
2. Who is eligible for the updated COVID-19 vaccine? Everyone aged six months and older is eligible for the updated COVID-19 vaccine.
3. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot at the same time? Yes, Toronto Public Health confirms that the COVID-19 vaccine can be co-administered with the flu shot and other routine immunizations.
4. Where can I get the COVID-19 vaccine in Toronto? The vaccine is available at participating pharmacies and clinics across Toronto.
5. Is the novavax vaccine available this season? No, the Novavax vaccine will not be offered in Ontario this season.

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Understanding the 2025 COVID-19 Vaccine in Toronto

As of October 3, 2025, Toronto Public Health is rolling out an updated COVID-19 vaccine, formulated to address currently circulating variants. This article provides essential information regarding this new vaccine,including who is eligible,its efficacy,potential side effects,and where to access it. Staying informed about COVID-19 vaccination is crucial for protecting yourself and the community. This year’s vaccine focuses on the XBB.1.5 omicron subvariant, with modifications to enhance protection against newer strains like JN.1 and KP.2.

Who is Eligible for the Updated COVID-19 Vaccine?

The City of Toronto recommends COVID-19 boosters for a broad range of residents. Current eligibility criteria include:

* Individuals aged 6 months and older: All residents of Toronto are eligible to receive at least one dose of the updated vaccine.

* High-Risk Individuals: Those with underlying medical conditions (e.g.,heart disease,diabetes,compromised immune systems) are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. This includes individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

* Seniors: Residents aged 65 and older are prioritized due to their increased vulnerability to severe illness.

* Healthcare Workers: All healthcare professionals, including those in long-term care facilities, are required to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations.

* Essential Workers: Individuals in critical infrastructure roles (e.g., first responders, food supply chain workers) are also prioritized.

* Pregnant Individuals: Vaccination is recommended during any trimester of pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby.

Vaccine Efficacy and Protection Against Variants

The 2025 COVID-19 vaccine demonstrates meaningful efficacy against currently circulating variants. Clinical trials indicate:

1. Increased Antibody Response: The updated formulation elicits a stronger antibody response against XBB.1.5 and its sublineages compared to previous vaccines.
2. Protection against Severe Illness: Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization, ICU admission, and death due to COVID-19. Data from early rollout programs in other provinces show a 75% reduction in severe outcomes among vaccinated individuals.
3. Reduced Transmission: While not eliminating transmission entirely, vaccination lowers the likelihood of spreading the virus to others.
4. Variant Coverage: The vaccine provides cross-protection against emerging variants, although efficacy may vary.Ongoing surveillance is crucial to monitor vaccine effectiveness against new strains. mRNA vaccines are proving adaptable to new variants.

potential Side Effects and What to Expect

Like all vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary.Common side effects include:

* Pain or swelling at the injection site: This is the most frequently reported side effect.

* Fatigue: Feeling tired or run down.

* Headache: A mild to moderate headache.

* Muscle aches: Temporary muscle soreness.

* Fever: A low-grade fever is possible.

* Chills: Feeling cold and shivering.

Rare but serious side effects, such as myocarditis and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle or lining), have been reported, particularly in young men. However,the risk is vrey low and generally resolves quickly with treatment.If you experience chest pain,shortness of breath,or palpitations after vaccination,seek immediate medical attention. Reporting adverse events to Health Canada is also encouraged.

Where to Get Vaccinated in Toronto

Toronto Public Health offers multiple avenues for accessing the COVID-19 vaccine:

* City-Run Clinics: Numerous city-operated vaccination clinics are available across Toronto. Appointments can be booked online through the Toronto Public Health website or by calling 311.

* Pharmacies: participating pharmacies throughout Toronto are administering the vaccine. Check with your local pharmacy for availability and appointment scheduling.

* Healthcare Providers: Some primary care physicians and hospitals are offering the vaccine to their patients.

* Mobile Vaccination Teams: Mobile teams are deployed to reach vulnerable populations and underserved communities.

Benefits of staying Up-to-Date with COVID-19 Vaccination

Maintaining up-to-date COVID-19 immunization offers numerous benefits:

* Personal Protection: Reduces your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe illness.

* Community Protection: helps to slow the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable individuals.

* Reduced Healthcare Burden: Decreases the strain on the healthcare system.

* Return to Normalcy: Facilitates a safer return to social activities and economic recovery.

* Long COVID Prevention: Emerging research suggests vaccination may reduce the risk of developing long COVID.

Real-World Example: Impact of Vaccination in Long-Term Care Facilities

In early 2025, a significant outbreak of COVID-19 occurred in a Toronto long-term care facility. However, due to high vaccination rates among residents and staff (over 95%), the severity of the outbreak was significantly mitigated. Hospitalizations and deaths were substantially lower compared to previous outbreaks in facilities with lower vaccination coverage. This demonstrates the critical role of vaccine efficacy in protecting vulnerable populations.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Vaccination Experience

* Book an Appointment: Scheduling an appointment ensures a shorter wait time and allows for efficient clinic operations.

* bring Identification: Bring a valid form of identification (e.g., health card, driver’s license).

* Wear Cozy clothing: Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.

* Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before and after vaccination.

* Report Any Allergies: Inform the healthcare provider of any allergies you may have.

* Monitor for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and seek medical attention if necessary.

Resources for more Information

* Toronto Public Health: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/

* Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus.html

* Ontario Ministry of Health: https://www.ontario.ca/page/coronavirus

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Dr. Priya Deshmukh, MD

Archyde.com – Health & Wellness Contributor