The leaves are turning, and that means respiratory season is on its way. If you’re wondering whether this year’s flu shot is any different, or whether you’ll still get it for free, here’s what we know so far.
Your flu shot is still free
Provinces are handling vaccine coverage differently this fall. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be free for all residents in Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Ontario and Manitoba, among others. Quebec has gone the other way: it won’t offer free flu shots to the whole population this fall, and free doses are limited to higher-risk groups. New Brunswick hasn’t followed suit.
The vaccine has been updated
Flu viruses change, so the vaccine does too. This year’s shot has been reformulated to protect against an influenza A(H3N2) subclade K virus that spread widely during the 2025-26 season. That doesn’t mean last year’s shot was useless. Even after the new strain spread, the vaccine continued to offer protection. The updated version is simply a better match for what’s expected to circulate.
Some U.S. sources also describe a new mRNA flu vaccine option this season. I couldn’t confirm that it will be part of New Brunswick’s publicly funded program, so ask your pharmacist or health-care provider about what’s on offer here.
The COVID-19 shot has been updated too
For 2026-27, the Department of Health says it will offer a COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to New Brunswick residents, targeting the Omicron XFG variant. Authorized pharmacists can give the publicly funded vaccine to eligible residents aged two and older.
You can get both shots in one visit. Last year, the province’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Yves Léger, said getting both vaccines during the same visit is safe, efficient and convenient.
When can you get it?
As of today, New Brunswick hasn’t published its 2026-27 start date. New Brunswick was among the provinces that hadn’t published dates at the time of the most recent roundups. Last year offers a rough guide. Vaccines became available on Oct. 14, and adult appointments could be booked online starting Oct. 3. Pharmacists have said a mid-October launch is a typical timeframe. Watch the provincial government’s news page and your local pharmacy for the official announcement.
Who should prioritize it?
Everyone six months and older is eligible, but the shots are especially recommended for people at higher risk of complications. Last year’s guidance also flagged the pneumococcal vaccine for people 65 and older, and for younger adults with risk factors. Free RSV vaccination was also newly opened to New Brunswickers 75 and older last year. Check whether the eligibility has changed for this season.
For kids, last year FluMist, the nasal spray flu vaccine, was available for children aged two to 17 who may be hesitant about needles. Confirm whether that’s returning and how to access it.
The bottom line
The big-picture message hasn’t changed: get your flu shot, get your COVID-19 shot, and don’t wait too long. Once dates are announced, booking early gives you the most flexibility. In the meantime, the free coverage you’re used to is staying in place, which isn’t true everywhere in Canada.
Details may change once the province announces its 2026-27 program, so check the Government of New Brunswick website or your pharmacy for the latest.
