TORONTO – With Health Canada’s approval of the Pfizer bivalent vaccine for everyone aged 12 and over, starting on Mon. Oct. 17, the booster will be available to Ontario youths ages 12 to 17 who have completed their primary COVID-19 vaccine series.
Appointments can be booked now through the COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre (PVCC) at 1-833-943-3900.
Eligible individuals can also book an appointment directly through public health units that use their own booking systems, Indigenous-led vaccination clinics, participating health care providers and participating pharmacies.
“The colder weather is here which means an increase in respiratory illnesses,” said Minister of Health Sylvia Jones. “Getting vaccinated remains the best defence against the flu and COVID-19 to help keep Ontarians healthy and out of hospitals. This will also ensure the province can continue its efforts to keep Ontario and its businesses open.”
In addition to the bivalent booster, the flu shot will be readily available starting Nov. 1 through healthcare providers, public health units, and participating pharmacies.
“We are entering into the fall season where traditionally we see a rise in cases of respiratory illness, including COVID-19,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health. “Vaccines improve your immune response and reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and post-infection symptoms. We recommend Ontarians stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations at the appropriate interval since their last dose, and get an annual flu shot when it becomes available.”
The Ontario government is also recommending that those over 60 years of age who have COVID-19 symptoms access antiviral treatments such as Paxlovid. Learn more about COVID-19 treatments and review your eligibility by using Ontario’s antiviral screener tool, speaking with your healthcare provider or calling 811.
The government suggests the public should stay home when they are feeling sick and continue to practise good hand hygiene.
