News & Notes / vaccinations

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

With September approaching, Waterloo and Kitchener families are getting ready for a new school year. Amid the new backpacks and supply lists, it's easy to overlook one of the most important back-to-school tasks: making sure your children are up to date on vaccinations.

Vaccination Checklist for School-Age Children

Ontario has a publicly funded immunization schedule for children. Before school starts, confirm your child is up to date on:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) — two doses required for school attendance in Ontario
• Varicella (chickenpox) — one or two doses depending on age
• Hepatitis B — typically given in Grade 7
• Meningococcal vaccine — typically given in Grade 7
• HPV vaccine — typically given in Grade 7

Flu Shot — Get It Early

The flu spreads quickly in schools, and one sick child often means a sick household. The flu vaccine is free for all Ontarians and is available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy with no appointment needed.

For Parents: Update Your Own Vaccines Too

• Tdap or Td booster (every 10 years)
• Annual flu vaccine
• COVID-19 boosters as recommended
• Shingles vaccine (Shingrix) if you're 50 or older

Walk in for flu shots anytime. Call (519) 578-3000 for vaccine availability. Learn more about our flu shot service.

Planning a trip abroad this summer? Making sure your vaccinations are up to date is one of the most frequently overlooked parts of travel preparation. The good news: you can take care of many travel vaccines right here in Waterloo at The Boardwalk Pharmacy.

Why Travel Vaccines Matter

Different parts of the world have different disease risks. The most important thing to know: some vaccines require multiple doses or weeks to take full effect. Travel health experts recommend booking a consultation at least 4 to 6 weeks before your departure date.

Common Travel Vaccines to Ask About

• Hepatitis A — recommended for most international travel
• Hepatitis B — recommended for longer stays or medical travel
• Typhoid — recommended for travel to South Asia, Africa, and Latin America
• Yellow Fever — required for entry to some countries
• COVID-19 boosters — ensure you're up to date before international travel
• Routine vaccines — confirm MMR, tetanus, and flu are current

Book a Travel Health Consultation in Waterloo

Call ahead at (519) 578-3000 — we recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2 | Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

See all vaccinations we offer