Ontario residents 70 and older, who live in long-term care, and other vulnerable populations can start booking appointments to get the new COVID-19 booster shot.
The provincial system that books appointments for COVID-19 shots opened at 8 a.m. on Monday.
Healthcare workers, the Indigenous over 18 years, moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals over 12, and pregnant mothers over 18 are also eligible for the new booster, which is more effective fighting the Omicron variant.
The province paused booster appointments for Ontarians 18 and up until September 26. However, it will honour previously booked appointments up to September 25.
“With the start of the respiratory illness season, it is especially important to make sure people stay up to date with their vaccines,” said Health Minister Sylvia Jones. “COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are the best tool to keep people healthy and out of hospitals and ensure Ontario’s economy stays open.”
The bivalent booster is recommended at least six months after a previous dose of the vaccine.
Appointments are available through the province’s vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Health units that have their own booking system will take appointments as well, along with primary healthcare providers and participating pharmacies.
Pregnant mothers and healthcare workers booking appointments up to September 25 should call the provincial centre or book a dose with a participating pharmacy.
The Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre can also answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccine seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The hearing and speech impaired should call 1-866-797-0007. Parents and caregivers can also reach the COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service at 1-888-304-6558 to speak with a SickKids registered nurse.
Long-term care facilities, retirement homes, and Elder Care Lodges will offer the bivalent booster to their residents.
