Get your flu shot at Rexall. Walk-ins welcome or book your appointment today.

Flu Shots FAQ

• Will getting the flu shot protect me from COVID-19?

  The flu shot will not protect against COVID-19, but it will help reduce your risk of getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Having both illnesses at the same time could put you at a higher risk for severe complications.

• How can I distinguish the symptoms between COVID-19 and the flu?

  Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu may be very similar; however, COVID-19 is more contagious, and complications can be more serious than Influenza. Testing is needed to tell what the illness is and to confirm a diagnosis. Common symptoms that both COVID-19 and flu share include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/having chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle pain or body aches
  • Headache
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Change in or loss of taste or smell, although this is more frequent with COVID-19.

  People can be infected with both flu and the virus that causes COVID-19 at the same time and have symptoms of both Influenza and COVID-19.

• Cases of the flu were reduced dramatically last year, is getting my flu shot really necessary this year?

  The flu virus spreads to others mainly by droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes or talks. This is the same way the COVID-19 virus spreads. Last year with all of the social distancing practices implemented to control the spread of COVID, this effectively reduced the spread of flu. With the increasing immunization rates for COVID-19 and the slow easing of social distancing restrictions the chances of the flu virus spreading increases.

  While social distancing, masking, washing your hands often and sanitizing high-touched areas minimizes the risk of spreading the flu, the single best way of preventing the flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccination prevents tens of thousands of hospitalizations each year. It is particularly important to be vaccinated to protect yourself and to minimize the spread to those who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with underlying chronic medical conditions, and those who are immunosuppressed.

  Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu shot.

• How can I book my flu shot at Rexall?

  Rexall offers a simple, safe and convenient way to book your free flu shot through our digital scheduling tool. You can join the waitlist by visiting: rexall.smcdougall.dev.nort.ca. You will be notified by email and text message to schedule your appointment once flu vaccinations are available.

• What safety procedures are in place at Rexall for receiving a flu vaccination?

  Upon arrival at Rexall, patients can expect increased sanitation protocols, and pharmacists wearing PPE throughout the vaccination process. Patients are required to wear masks or face coverings during their appointment.

• At what age can individuals receive the flu shot from a Rexall pharmacist?

  Across Canada, individuals aged 5 years and above can receive a flu shot from a Rexall pharmacist. In Ontario & Manitoba, individuals aged 2 years and above can receive their flu shot from a Rexall pharmacist.

• Can I add my family to the waitlist for the flu shot at the same time?

  Yes. By visiting rexall.smcdougall.dev.nort.ca, you can add yourself and your family members to the waitlist, enabling you and your family the opportunity to be vaccinated in one visit to our pharmacy.

• Will you provide a record of receiving a flu shot?

  Yes, you will be provided an immunization record and also have the ability to view a digital record for the last 3 years of immunizations you receive at Rexall. A digital record is available by downloading the Be Well App. Speak to your Rexall Pharmacy about connecting your Be Well app to your individual profile.

  BC residents may obtain the immunization record on the provincial Health Gateway (Health Gateway - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)).

• Can seniors receive Fluad or Fluzone High Dose for the flu at Rexall pharmacies?

  Fluad or Fluzone High Dose will be offered at Rexall pharmacies based on provincial eligibility and supply availability. Fluad or Fluzone High Dose may be recommended for specific individuals. Your pharmacist will advise you if you qualify for Fluad, Fluzone HD or for the regular Flu Vaccine. Fluad or High Dose Flu shots are only available in select provinces based on vaccine supply available to pharmacies from the province.

• Can I receive my flu shot at the same time as my COVID-19 vaccine?

  On September 28, 2021, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) updated its recommendations on the timing of COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 vaccines. NACI concluded that individuals aged 5 and over could receive routine vaccines, such as the flu shot, at the same time or within days of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

• How can I book my flu shot at Rexall?

  Rexall offers a simple, safe and convenient way to book your free flu shot through our digital scheduling tool. Click on the Book Now button on this page to join the list. You will be notified by email and text message to schedule your appointment once flu vaccinations are available.

*Based on vaccine availability. The flu shot can be administered to all individuals aged 2 years or older in Ontario & Manitoba and 5 years or older in Saskatchewan, Alberta & British Columbia.