November 5, 2021 - On Wednesday, the Province announced that it was expanding eligibility for booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to additional groups of higher risk individuals, providing them an extra layer of protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant.
Groups now eligible for a booster dose at least six months (168 days) after receiving their second dose are:
- Individuals aged 70 and over (born in 1951 or earlier);
- Health care workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings (including long-term care home and retirement home staff and designated caregivers);
- Individuals who received a complete series of a viral vector vaccine (two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine or one dose of the Janssen vaccine); and
- First Nation, Inuit and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members.
Booster doses are being offered to these groups based on an increased risk of gradual waning immunity six months after receiving their second dose, higher risk of exposure, higher risk of transmitting to vulnerable people, and a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Booster doses for these groups are to be at least 6 months (168 days or 24 weeks) after the second dose. Individuals are encouraged to check the date of their second dose so they know when they are eligible. Individuals in these groups will become eligible for their booster dose over the coming weeks and months, depending in when they received their second dose. If needed, individuals can check the date of their vaccine doses through the Ontario Ministry of Health website: proof of vaccination.
To accommodate this increased eligibility, TBDHU is opening up appointments in the provincial booking system for all these eligible groups. In Thunder Bay, appointments will be available starting Monday, November 8 th at the CLE Coliseum clinic. Appointments will also be available in November in the District Communities.
In addition, Indigenous partners who were involved previously in providing COVID-19 vaccine are actively planning for vaccine clinics in the near future. More details will to be provided shortly. Many health care workers will be offered the immunization through their health care organization. Select pharmacies also continue to provide COVID-19 vaccine to all who are eligible including for booster doses. Individuals may also be able to obtain booster doses through some primary care providers.
TBDHU will continue to provide first and second doses by walk-in at CLE Coliseum. As well, individuals who are immunocompromised can receive their third doses on a walk-in basis. Third doses for these individuals are at least two months (56 days) following their second dose and Individuals should bring documentation from their health care provider or their prescriptions to show they qualify. Booster doses are by appointment only.
To book an appointment for the CLE Coliseum clinic:
Appointments can be booked starting Saturday November 6th at 8 AM through the provincial booking system or by calling 1-833-943-3900.
To book an appointment for a District Vaccination clinic:
Please visit the TBDHU website to see dates and locations currently available. Appointments can be booked starting Saturday November 6th at 8 AM through the provincial booking system or by calling 1-833-943-3900. Additional clinic dates will be added as they become available.
TBDHU encourages everyone, whether you have been vaccinated or not, to continue following all public health measures to protect the health of individuals and our health system. If you develop any COVID-19 symptoms, even mild ones, isolate immediately and arrange to get tested at your local assessment centre.
Visit TBDHU.com for more information.
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For more information - Health Unit Media: news@tbdhu.com.