COVID-19 vaccine update: Expanded list of eligible medications for third doses of COVID-19 vaccine

Advisory Alert

October 20, 2021

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To: Local Health System Partners

Expanded list of eligible medications for third doses of COVID-19 vaccine

In follow up to the Advisory Alert issued on October 8, 2021, this Advisory Alert highlights updates to the Ministry of Health third dose eligibility recommendations as well as to the Ministry of Health clinic guide for verifying eligible immunosuppressive prescriptions.

Ministry of Health COVID-19 third dose recommendations

Effective October 15, 2021, the Ministry of Health amended the COVID-19 vaccine third dose recommendations (PDF) to include a list of immunosuppressant medications which make an individual eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. While this update does not change processes for identifying and administering third doses, it does further expand the list of those eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Expanded list of prescription immunosuppressant medications

The revised COVID-19 vaccine third dose recommendations (PDF) document now includes a table outlining a list of prescription immunosuppressant medications which make an individual eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Per processes outlined in the October 8 Advisory Alert, individuals may present to a Public Health clinic or pharmacy with proof of prescription such as the prescription bottle or prescription documentation. If an individual presents with a prescription medication not outlined in the list, they should report to their health care provider to receive a referral form (English (PDF), French (PDF)) for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine if they are eligible.

Clients eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine due to immunocompromising conditions may receive the vaccine from their treating provider or be referred to a Public Health vaccine clinic or a participating pharmacy.

For more detailed information on the list of eligible medications and third dose updates, review the Ministry of Health COVID-19 vaccine third dose recommendations (PDF).

Clinic guide to verifying immunosuppressive prescriptions for third doses of COVID-19 vaccine

In addition to updating the COVID-19 vaccine third dose recommendations, the Ministry amended the Clinic Guide to Verifying Immunosuppressive Prescriptions for Third Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF). This tool, designed for clinicians, includes an updated list of additional immunosuppressant medication classes and medication names which can be used to identify third dose eligibility among immunocompromised individuals. Per the clinic guide, if the individual’s prescription is validated, and the drug name is listed in the guidance document, a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can be administered following informed consent.

Additional information

For more information on the COVID-19 vaccines, as well as answers to frequently asked questions visit our FAQ web page or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).

Sincerely,

Original Signed By

Dr. Penny Sutcliffe
Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer

NOTE: All Advisory Alerts are found on our website.

This item was last modified on October 20, 2021