Southwestern Public Health offering bivalent COVID-19 vaccine

Effective September 12 2022, the health unit moves to appointment-only format to manage supply demands

Southwestern Public Health will begin offering Moderna’s new Omicron targeting bivalent vaccine aligned with Provincial timelines announced today.

Who is eligible?

• Beginning September 12 at 8 a.m., people aged 70 and older, adult healthcare workers, First Nation Inuit and Métis adults (and their adult household members), pregnant adults, and moderately to severely immunocompromised people aged 12 and older are eligible for a booster with this formulation. Also eligible are residents in Elder Care Lodges, long-term care and retirement homes, and other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services. Pregnant adults and healthcare workers who book between September 12 and 25 must book by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, or through participating pharmacies directly.

• Beginning September 26 at 8 a.m., individuals aged 18 to 69 become eligible for the Omicron targeting bivalent booster. Appointments for September 26 and onward can be booked as of September 12 through the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre.

How to book an appointment
Effective today, all Southwestern Public Health COVID-19 vaccine clinics are by-appointment only. Walk-ins are no longer accepted at this time. Book online at covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine, or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900.

How long between doses?
It is recommended to wait 6 months between this booster and a past dose, or 3 months at minimum. It is also recommended to wait until 3-to-6 months have passed since a known COVID-19 infection.

Children and youth
Ages 6 months to 17 years are not currently eligible for this Omicron specific bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster. Select individuals aged 12 to 17 are eligible for a bivalent booster if they are moderately to severely immunocompromised. Speak to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Background:
• Ontario bivalent eligibility news release (link)
• Ministry guidance and other vaccine-related resources for healthcare professionals (link)
• National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommendations for bivalent COVID-19 vaccines (link)