Children’s Flu, COVID and Cold Clinic

If your child has worsening flu, COVID or cold symptoms, but you feel their symptoms are not severe and you would like to have a doctor assess them, visit the MCH Flu, COVID & Cold Clinic during the posted hours.

Please visit the emergency department if they are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion (if this is a new symptom for them).

We are unable to provide emergency care at the Flu, COVID & Cold Clinic.

The clinic is open to children aged 0-17 only.

Adults can book an appointment at the Flu, COVID and Cold Clinic at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton by visiting their website at stjoes.ca/flu-covid-cold-clinic.

Once you open the booking site using the button above, follow these steps:

1. Choose Family Medicine
2. Select the kind of appointment you want (flu assessment or flu vaccination)
3. Select the date and time you want (Note: Multiple providers may be visible. It doesn’t matter which one you pick.)
4. Follow the remaining screen prompts. You will be given the option to log into MyChart if you have an existing account, or to continue as a guest. You will be asked to provide personal health information including your name, birth date, address, phone number and other demographic information. The personal health information provided is securely stored and accessed by authorized individuals to provide care and manage the program. Any email can be provided as part of this booking. If you are a St. Joe’s or HHS employee, please do not use your office/work contact information.

If you are booking an appointment for a family member, you must book using your family members’ name, address, phone number, health card number, etc.

If you need to cancel your appointment, use the link available in your confirmation email.

You can learn more about MyChart here.

Family doctor – If you and your loved ones have a family doctor, they should be your first call
Urgent Care – For concerns such as sprains, strains or bruises, ear infections, rashes
Health Connect Ontario – Dial 8-1-1 or chat online to speak with a registered nurse 24/7
Emergency Department – If you are experiencing a medical emergency, shortness of breath, chest pain or new symptoms of confusion, call 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency department
Still unsure? Visit needadoc.ca to learn what care option is best for you

Flu shots will be available for children aged 6 months to 17 years for a limited time. You must book an appointment to receive a flu shot at the clinic.

Walk-in access is available for children who experience symptoms consistent with cough, cold and flu-like illnesses, and are unable to seek timely care from a family doctor.

You do not need a doctor’s referral to be seen at the MCH Flu, COVID & Cold Clinic.

Please bring your child’s health card and a list of any current medications they are taking.

A primary care doctor will perform an initial assessment and ask questions about your child’s health including the symptoms they are experiencing. A relevant physical exam will also be performed, which will assist the physician to determine the nature of your child’s illness.

Based on the findings, your child may need to undergo further testing, such as a chest x-ray, which can be done at McMaster Children’s Hospital. The doctor will also determine whether your child requires a prescription and will give you follow-up instructions after the visit.

Yes. Your family doctor will receive a summary of the visit.

The Flu, COVID & Cold Clinic does not provide follow-up care.

The doctor will share an after-care summary before you leave, with instructions on what to do next.

One parent or caregiver may accompany their child to the MCH Flu, COVID & Cold Clinic.

Yes. The HHS universal masking policy is in place everywhere in the hospital. Please ensure you and your child are masked before entering the hospital.

Masks are also available at each hospital entrance.