Eligible individuals can now start to book their COVID-19 booster shot appointment at a community clinic in Simcoe Muskoka.
They are currently available at the Barrie Immunization Clinic at 29 Sperling Dr, while all other community clinics will open November 15.
While a full dose series of COVID-19 vaccine provides powerful and persistent protection against COVID-19 for most people,a booster dose provides an extra layer of protection, particularly against the highly transmissible Delta variant, for individuals more at risk.
A booster dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine given at least six months (minimum of 168 days) after the last dose is recommended for:
- Individuals aged 70 and over (born in 1951 or earlier)
- Healthcare workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings (including long-term care home and retirement home staff and designated caregivers)
- Individuals who received two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine or one dose of the Janssen vaccine
- First Nation, Inuit and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members
Booster doses are being offered to these groups based on evidence of gradual waning immunity six months after receiving their second dose and a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
COVID-19 booster appointments can be made through the online provincial booking system or the Provincial Vaccine Booking Line: 1-833-943-3900. Booster shots are also available at select pharmacies, GO-VAXX bus mobile clinics, at some primary health care providers and for health care providers from their employer.
For more information about COVID-19 booster shots and who is eligible for an appointment, please visit our COVID-19 pages by clicking here.
The SMDHU is also encouraging residents to get their flu shot.
(1/5) Health Canada has authorized the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty #CovidVaccine as a booster shot to be used in adults 18 years of age and older at least six months after completing their primary vaccine series. pic.twitter.com/4aehiA8I9B
— Health Canada and PHAC (@GovCanHealth) November 9, 2021
As of Nov 6, online #COVID19Vaccine booster apt booking will be available for 29 Sperling Drive ONLY. All other public health community clinics will open Nov 15 & apts are expected to be available in the online booking system by next week. For more info: https://t.co/Ks44EpEUMP pic.twitter.com/pus1yWBGFs
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) November 5, 2021
By getting your flu shot, you are protecting yourself, as well as those around you.
The flu vaccine is available to everyone 6 months of age & older. You can get your annual flu shot at a participating pharmacy (2 years of age +) or from your health care provider. pic.twitter.com/7ZEsmSQnuq
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) November 9, 2021