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Back to SearchNov. 17, 2025, Ottawa, Ont. - Cold and flu season has arrived, and CHEO has reinstated proven public health measures to reduce the spread of viruses and protect those who come to the hospital and community locations.
Viral season can bring a triple threat for children and youth with seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but CHEO is prepared to ensure children, youth and families continue to receive exceptional care in our community.
Starting today, 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 again set a limit of one caregiver for patients attending appointments, and will not be allowing visitors, including siblings under 12 years old, as per CHEO’s viral season visitor policy.
Vaccines continue to serve as your best protection against RSV, COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. For anyone who may not have access to a regular health-care provider, vaccine clinics are being held as part of the Kids Come First Vaccinate and Up-To-Date campaign. Appointments are available here.
Additional resources for parents and caregivers, which can help manage this viral season, are also available on the CHEO website.
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About CHEO
Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. Named Canada’s best health-care employer by Forbes in 2024 and 2025, we are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.