COVID-19 vaccine update: Fall booster doses encouraged and bivalent vaccine use expanded

With the release of recently updated COVID-19 vaccination guidelines by the Ontario Ministry of Health, Public Health Sudbury & Districts is recommending that all eligible individuals in need of a COVID-19 booster dose consider waiting until the fall to receive it. Doing so will provide greater protection before the typical increase of respiratory illnesses in the fall and winter months. Alternatively, individuals who are starting, completing, or re-initiating a primary COVID-19 series are encouraged to contact Public Health to book an appointment as soon as possible.

“Based on the updated guidance, we are recommending that individuals over age 5 delay getting their COVID-19 boosters if they are currently eligible to receive it now,” said Cynthia Peacock-Rocca, manager, COVID-19 operations with Public Health Sudbury & Districts. “By following this guidance and getting your booster closer to the start of the fall respiratory illness season, you will give yourself greater protection against serious illness through the winter months,” said Peacock-Rocca.

Individuals can choose to receive their booster dose before the fall based on their own health status and personal situation. Before booking an appointment for your booster dose, please speak to your health care provider to determine if you should get your booster dose sooner than this fall.

The updated COVID-19 vaccination guidelines are posted on the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website. If you have questions, you can also call or chat with a registered nurse day or night for free, secure, and confidential health advice (24/7) by contacting Health811 (Ontario Government)—visit health811.ontario.ca or call 811 (TTY 1.866.797.0007).

The updated guidelines also confirm that bivalent mRNA vaccines will be given as the primary series of vaccinations for individuals aged 6 months and older and will continue to be used for booster doses for those that are eligible. Clients are encouraged to contact Public Health or speak with their health care provider to discuss the availability of COVID-19 vaccines.

Public Health Sudbury & Districts continues to offer appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations at its office locations this summer, but the frequency of the clinics is reduced, and walk-ins are not accepted. To book an appointment, please call 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200). COVID-19 vaccination opportunities are also available through local pharmacies or your primary care provider.

For more information, please visit phsd.ca/COVID-19 or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).