September 12, 2022 - This morning, the Province announced that the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will be available starting today. As of 8:00 am this morning, individuals 18 years of age and older are able to book appointments for a fall booster dose with the bivalent vaccine. Appointments for this week and next week will be available to individuals in priority groups who are at higher risk due to COVID-19. Individuals who are not part of a priority group will be offered appointments for the week of Monday, September 26 and beyond.
Individuals who are at higher risk due to COVID-19 and who are eligible to receive the fall booster dose starting this week are:
- Individuals aged 70 and over
- First Nation, Inuit and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over;
- Individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals aged 12 and over;
- Health care workers aged 18 and older; and
- Pregnant individuals aged 18 and older.
In addition, beginning this week, the fall booster dose will be provided to residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, and older individuals living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services.
Individuals can receive the bivalent fall booster at the recommended interval of at least six months from their previous dose, regardless of how many boosters they have already received. Earlier administration of the fall booster may be warranted, especially for those at higher risk of severe illness. Individuals are encouraged to check the date of their previous dose. If needed, individuals can check the date of their vaccine doses through the Ontario Ministry of Health website.
Appointments are available in the Provincial Booking System for Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) immunization clinics at various locations throughout Thunder Bay and in District communities. Eligible individuals can book appointments online or by calling 1-833-943-3900. Additional appointments will be added as vaccine supply is confirmed. Due to increased demand, the clinics will be by appointment, with limited availability for walk-ins. Any walk-ins will be prioritized (ex. first and second doses, and boosters for 70+) however individuals may be turned away if demand is high.
Select pharmacies and participating primary care providers, including Indigenous health providers continue to provide COVID-19 vaccines, including the bivalent booster dose, to all who are eligible. Many health care workers will also have option to receive the immunization through their health care organization.
Stay tuned to the TBDHU website and social media for more information and announcements as details become available and additional appointments are added.
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For more information - Health Unit Media: news@tbdhu.com.