Influenza (flu)

The influenza virus or “flu” is a respiratory virus that circulates in Ontario, most frequently in the fall and winter. Influenza spreads from person-to-person through coughing, sneezing or having face-to-face contact. It can cause mild to severe respiratory disease. While anyone can get influenza, the very young, the elderly and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of complications. The best way to prevent infection is to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine every year.

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Event

PHO Rounds: Respiratory Season 2026–27, Part 1: Surveillance and Testing of Respiratory Pathogens in Ontario

The first session will provide an overview of current epidemiological trends for COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity in Ontario, Canada and internationally. The session also describes the planned approach to testing across the provincial laboratory network for respiratory viruses for the 2026–27 season.

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Contact the Department

Communicable Disease Control

Communicable.DiseaseControl@oahpp.ca

Updated 17 Aug 2026