News & Notes / flu-shot

Flu season is here — and if you haven't gotten your flu shot yet, now is the time. At The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo, we offer walk-in flu vaccinations with no appointment required.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?

The best time to get your flu shot in Ontario is October or early November. This timing gives your immune system 2–4 weeks to build protection before flu activity typically peaks in December and January.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

Health Canada recommends the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. It's especially critical for:

• Adults 65 and older
• Children aged 6 months to 5 years
• Pregnant women
• Anyone with chronic conditions — diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or compromised immune systems

Is the Flu Shot Free in Ontario?

Yes — the flu vaccine is free for all Ontarians aged 6 months and older under the Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP). You don't need an OHIP card. No appointment needed.

What About the COVID-19 Vaccine This Fall?

Updated COVID-19 vaccines are typically available each fall alongside flu vaccines. Ask our pharmacist about getting both done together.

Where to Get Your Flu Shot in Waterloo

Walk in to The Boardwalk Pharmacy — no appointment needed.
430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2 | (519) 578-3000
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

More about flu shots at our pharmacy | All vaccinations we offer

Every fall, pharmacies and clinics across Canada get the same question: "Is this a cold, the flu, or COVID?" The symptoms can overlap enough to cause genuine confusion — but the distinction matters.

Common Cold

• Gradual onset — symptoms develop slowly over 1–2 days
• Runny or stuffy nose is usually the main symptom
• Mild sore throat and sneezing
• Low or no fever in adults
• Rarely causes serious complications in healthy adults

Influenza (Flu)

• Sudden onset — you can feel fine at noon and miserable by dinner
• High fever (38–40°C) is common
• Significant body aches and chills
• Severe fatigue and weakness
• Can lead to serious complications, especially in high-risk groups

COVID-19

• Variable onset — can be gradual or sudden
• Loss of taste or smell (less common with newer variants)
• Fever, cough, fatigue
• Shortness of breath in some cases
• Test with a rapid antigen test if you're unsure

The Best Way to Protect Yourself: Vaccinate

There's no vaccine for the common cold, but there are effective vaccines for both flu and COVID-19 — both available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo with no appointment needed.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor or go to urgent care if you experience: difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe vomiting, or if a high fever doesn't improve with medication.

Need advice? Ask our pharmacist. Walk in or call (519) 578-3000.