Date: September 3, 2026
By: Emmanuel Ayiku | Health Correspondent for GhanaianNewsCanada
As autumn approaches, Canadian health experts are urging residents to prepare for the 2026–27 cold and flu season, warning that influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are expected to circulate simultaneously during the coming months. 
Public health authorities say the weeks ahead provide the best opportunity for Canadians to protect themselves through vaccination, particularly seniors, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions who face the highest risk of severe illness. 
Three viruses expected to dominate winter
Unlike the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic, this winter is expected to be shaped by multiple respiratory viruses rather than a single outbreak.
Health experts anticipate that:
Influenza will become the primary seasonal virus during late autumn and winter.
COVID-19 will continue circulating throughout the season with periodic waves.
RSV is expected to remain a significant threat, especially for infants and older adults. 
Doctors say these viruses often produce similar symptoms, making testing and early diagnosis important for vulnerable patients.
Why vaccination matters
Canadian health officials recommend receiving the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available, ideally before influenza transmission begins increasing across the country.
Updated COVID-19 vaccines are also expected to be offered this fall, while RSV immunization remains available for eligible seniors, infants and other high-risk groups.
Medical experts emphasize that vaccination does not eliminate the possibility of infection, but it significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization, severe complications and death. 
Recognising the symptoms
Although the common cold and influenza can appear similar, physicians say the flu usually develops more suddenly and is generally more severe.
Common cold symptoms often include:
Runny or blocked nose
Sneezing
Mild sore throat
Light cough
Influenza symptoms typically include:
High fever
Chills
Severe body aches
Fatigue
Persistent cough
Headache
Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or prolonged high fever is advised to seek medical attention immediately.
How families can stay protected
Health professionals say simple preventive habits remain among the most effective ways to reduce transmission during respiratory virus season.
They recommend:Washing hands frequently with soap.
Covering coughs and sneezes.
Staying home when experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Improving indoor ventilation whenever possible.
Keeping vaccinations up to date for eligible family members. 
Parents are also encouraged to keep children home from school or daycare if they develop fever or significant respiratory symptoms, helping to limit the spread within classrooms and communities.
Preparing for a healthier winter
Canada’s respiratory virus surveillance program will continue monitoring influenza, COVID-19 and RSV activity nationwide throughout the season, providing weekly updates to healthcare providers and the public. 
While experts do not expect the coming winter to mirror the height of the pandemic, they stress that preparedness remains essential.
By combining vaccination with everyday preventive measures, Canadians can help protect themselves, their families and the country’s healthcare system during the months ahead.
