Many people in Canada may skip their flu shot this season, with fewer than half aware they\u2019re eligible for a free one, according to a new survey commissioned by Mississauga-based Rexall.<\/p>\n
The survey, conducted by Angus Reid Group, found that 44 per cent of respondents know they\u2019re eligible for a free flu shot, but only 26 per cent say they have received or plan to receive one this season.<\/p>\n
For COVID-19, 36 per cent were aware of their eligibility, and just 20 per cent plan to get vaccinated.<\/p>\n
Awareness was lowest for repiratory viruses. Only 19 per cent of respondents aged 55 and older knew they were eligible, and 11 per cent said they have received or plan to receive the vaccine.<\/p>\n
The findings come after Public Health Agency of Canada data showed only 34 per cent of adults got a flu vaccine during the 2025-26 season.<\/p>\n
Among those who skipped their vaccines last year, the most common reason was believing they didn\u2019t need one. That was cited by 24 per cent for the flu shot, 26 per cent for COVID-19 among adults, and 23 per cent for RSV among adults 55 and older.<\/p>\n
Of those who skipped a flu shot last season, 42 per cent said they didn\u2019t think they needed it, forgot, put it off or didn\u2019t have time. By comparison, 18 per cent cited concerns about side effects, effectiveness or how well the vaccine matched circulating strains.<\/p>\n
Respondents said free availability (41 per cent), walk-in access (34 per cent) and locations close to home (34 per cent) would make it easier to get vaccinated. Only two per cent of those who skipped a flu shot said cost was their main barrier.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese findings suggest many people do not realize they are eligible or have not made vaccination a priority,\u201d said Jeff Boutilier, Rexall\u2019s senior vice-president and chief operating officer.<\/p>\n