The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has reported an "overwhelming" demand for third dose booster vaccines and is responding by prioritizing the highest-risk groups.
Now through Monday morning (Dec. 20) the available third-dose appointments will be reserved for the following priority groups:
- Individuals 50 years old and older
- Healthcare workers, designated essential caregivers in congregate settings
- individuals who received two doses of AstraZeneca or one dose of the Janssen vaccine
- First Nation, Inuit, and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members who are 16 years old or older
Individuals are encouraged to get a third dose of the COVID vaccines as soon as they can because of the rapid spread of the omicron variant in Ontario and around the world. Early evidence suggests a third dose or booster can help increase protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
Until Monday, third doses appointments online are only available for individuals who received their second dose of vaccine at least six months ago. Walk-ins for anyone less than six months past their second dose are not available at local clinics.
Eligible groups can move their existing third-dose appointments up based on the new three-month interval, or can book based on the shortened timeframe by calling the provincial vaccine number at 1-833-943-3900 between now and Monday morning.
o Anyone 50+ with a previously booked appointment at the 168 day interval can call the provincial call centre 1-833-943-3900 to move their appt up based on the new 84 day interval
A news release from the health unit states it will continue to update appointment availability as it opens up.
Ontario-wide anyone aged 18 or older is eligible to book a third-dose appointment starting on Dec. 20.
For more information about COVID-19 and details about where and how to get your vaccination, visit our website at www.smdhu.org/COVID19.
