Quebec is ending universal free flu vaccination this fall, meaning many otherwise healthy Quebecers under 65 will have to pay if they want a shot.
The change effectively returns Quebec to its pre-pandemic approach, when free flu vaccination was targeted mainly at people considered at higher risk of complications or death. The province had expanded free access to everyone in recent years, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This year marks a change so that the vaccination program reflects the recommendations of the CIQ,” Health Ministry spokesperson Marie-Christine Patry said to The Gazette Wednesday.