CHEO brings back public health measures for early start to flu season
Nov. 2, 2026, Ottawa, ON - CHEO has reinstated proven public health measures in response to increased respiratory illness activity in our community.
Viral season can bring a triple threat for children and youth with seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and this year we've seen an increase in flu activity during October. The peak of flu season usually takes place in December.
Starting today, Nov. 2, people coming to CHEO and community sites will need to wear a mask in all waiting areas and during all clinical interactions with patients and families.
CHEO will also maintain a limit of two caregivers for patients attending appointments, and will not allow visitors, including siblings under 12 years old, as per CHEO’s viral season visitor policy.
Vaccines continue to serve as your best protection. We are calling on everyone, including children, youth and adults, to get their routine immunizations this fall to support the health of our community, as well as our dedicated care providers.
Vaccination reduces the risk of hospitalization and helps protect vulnerable family members, including infants too young to be vaccinated.
The flu vaccine is now available at no charge to everyone six months of age and older. Parents and guardians have several options to get their families vaccinated, including:
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Participating pharmacies who continue to be the primary access point for flu vaccines for people two years of age and older, with many pharmacies offering walk-in services and appointments.
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Some primary care providers like doctors and nurse practitioners offer flu vaccines to eligible patients.
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Ottawa Public Health offers both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines to eligible high-risk and priority populations who face barriers, including newcomers without OHIP and children under age five and their household members. Vaccines will be available by appointment at OPH Community Clinics and on a drop-in basis based on capacity at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs.
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For those living outside Ottawa, please consult your local public health unit.
Families can also take precautions by maintaining proper hand hygiene, staying home when sick, and wearing a mask in crowds and indoor spaces.
Not all cold and flu symptoms require a trip to the Emergency Department. Please see this this helpful list of available resources and care options.
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