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What You Can Do to Prepare for Flu Season

November 06, 2025

Fall Preparedness: What You Can Do to Prepare for Flu Season

carmine stumpo getting his flu vaccine

Now that fall is here and temperatures are cooling, people are spending more time indoors and in closer contact with others. This seasonal shift brings an increased risk of spreading respiratory viruses, including influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the common cold. 

“Each year, respiratory illnesses like influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 place a significant strain on our community,” says Sarah Morris, Interim VP Chief Nursing Executive at Stevenson Memorial Hospital. “By staying up to date on vaccines, washing our hands often, masking when appropriate, and staying home when sick, we can each play a part in keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy. These simple steps help reduce the spread of infection and protect those at higher risk of severe illness.” 

Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) offers the following updated guidance to help individuals and families prepare and reduce the risk of infection in our community. 

Vaccines

COVID 19

Influenza (Flu)

  • The annual flu vaccine is formulated each year to match anticipated viral strains. In Ontario and Simcoe Muskoka, the flu shot is typically available starting in October.
  • Getting the flu vaccine remains one of the best ways to reduce your risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and complications.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

  • In Canada, there are now three RSV vaccines authorized for adults: RSVPreF3 (Arexvy), RSVpreF (Abrysvo), and mRNA 1345 (mRESVIA). (Canada.ca)
  • The age indication has been expanded: RSVPreF3 (Arexvy) was authorized for adults 50 years and older as of November 2024. (Canada.ca)
  • NACI recommends RSV immunization programs, especially for adults 75 years of age or older and for those 60 years of age and older living in long-term care or chronic care settings. (Ontario.ca)
  • In Ontario, publicly funded RSV vaccines are offered to certain eligible populations (e.g., long-term care residents aged 60+, or those with immunocompromising conditions). Other adults can obtain RSV vaccination privately through pharmacies. (Ontario Medical Association).

Where to Get Vaccinated in New Tecumseth/Simcoe County

Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU)

  • Flu & COVID 19 Vaccines: The SMDHU offers publicly funded vaccines for individuals who do not have access to vaccines through their healthcare provider. These are available by appointment only at all SMDHU offices. Book an appointment on their website.

Local Pharmacies in New Tecumseth & Simcoe County

  • To find a pharmacy near you that offers vaccines, please visit the Ontario website.

Family Healthcare Providers

  • Contact your family doctor or nurse practitioner to inquire if they are offering flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this fall. Many healthcare providers offer these services to their patients.

Hand Hygiene & Surface Cleaning

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
  • Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home, such as door handles, remote controls, and faucet handles.
  • When possible, spend time outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces, which lowers viral transmission risk.

Masking / Personal Protective Equipment

  • Wearing a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings or close contact with others helps reduce the risk of transmission.
  • Mask use is especially recommended for individuals at higher risk of severe outcomes (e.g., older adults, immunocompromised persons, those with chronic medical conditions).
  • If you’re experiencing symptoms and must go out in public, wearing a mask helps protect those around you.
  • Respect for individual choices is important; use of masks should be encouraged rather than compelled in many settings.

What to Do If You Get Sick

  • Symptoms of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and the common cold overlap: cough, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, fever, fatigue, etc.
  • If symptoms develop, do a COVID-19 test (rapid antigen or PCR) to guide management.
  • If you test positive for COVID-19 or have a high suspicion, self-isolate, inform close contacts, and stay home until you are no longer contagious.
  • Rapid antigen test kits are distributed by public health (while supplies last), particularly recommended for higher-risk individuals.
  • For those at higher risk of severe disease, oral antiviral treatment (e.g., Paxlovid) is available; it must be started early in the course of infection, and its use requires medical supervision.
  • Contact your physician, nurse practitioner, participating pharmacist, or visit Ontario.ca for more on antiviral eligibility and access.

Guidance for Pregnant Individuals

  • Pregnant individuals are at increased risk of complications from COVID-19. Vaccination has been shown to be safe and effective during pregnancy.
  • Influenza vaccination during pregnancy is also safe and protects newborns in the first few months of life.
  • Some RSV vaccines (e.g., Abrysvo) are authorized for use in late pregnancy (32–36 weeks) to pass immunity to the infant. Canada.ca

When to Seek Urgent Care

  • If symptoms become severe (for example, difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion or altered consciousness), seek emergency care immediately or call 911. 
  • If you need assistance finding a specific clinic or have questions about vaccine eligibility, please contact Health Connection.

SMH Fall Preparedness Video

For more information, we invite you to watch our Fall Preparedness Video, featuring Dr. Richardson, an emergency physician at SMH. In the video, Dr. Richardson discusses common seasonal illnesses, such as influenza and RSV, explains how they spread, and shares practical tips and preventative measures to help you stay healthy throughout the fall season.