Beginning Oct. 24, flu shots will be offered to high-risk Yukoners, seniors and elders over the age of 65.

Appointments for the general public aged six months and older will start the week of Oct. 31, the Yukon government said today.

High-risk Yukoners include people who are pregnant, have a chronic medical condition, infants and children age six to 59 months, residents of long-term care, health care providers, household contacts of those at high-risk, child care workers and workers that provide essential community services, the government said in a statement.

Enhanced influenza vaccines will be available and are recommended for Yukoners aged 65 and older, who have an increased risk of severe influenza illness.

Online appointments in Whitehorse will be available starting this Friday.

Appointments for flu vaccines will also be available at participating pharmacies. In the communities, flu shots will be offered at local health care centres.

Since COVID-19 vaccines and boosters can be administered at the same time as a flu shot, only one appointment is required.

“As we approach flu season, Yukoners are encouraged to stay up to date with their vaccines, including immunization against influenza,” said Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee.

“This is the best way to maintain personal health, protect your family and friends and reduce pressures on our health services.

“I encourage all Yukoners to do their part and keep up to date on vaccines,” the minister added.

Dr. Sudit Ranade, the chief medical officer of health, said the flu vaccine “has been proven to not only reduce the number of doctors’ visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to the flu but also can be taken with the COVID-19 vaccine safely.

“The combination will maximize protection against the highly contagious respiratory illnesses.”

For residents in most rural communities, bivalent boosters will be available at their community clinic later this month. They can contact their local health centre for more information.