Thousands of Ontario residents logged onto the province’s COVID-19 vaccine booking system as it launched Monday morning for those aged 80 and up.
At times, the site estimated the wait to reserve a shot to be upwards of an hour.
Experiences booking appointments vary.
Some people have told Quinte News they are receiving error messages after already waiting for a long period of time while some others reported booking appointments for as soon as this Wednesday within minutes.
The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care confirmed to Quinte News Monday afternoon some individuals are receiving an error message during the booking process and they are working to resolve the technical issue as quickly as possible.
Still, the spokesperson said as of 3 p.m., more than 60,000 appointments for first and second doses have been booked since the provincial booking system was launched.
Hastings Prince Edward Medical Officer of health Dr. Piotr Oglaza is asking people to remain patient and says no one who wants the vaccine will miss out.
“What I wanted to reassure everyone is that the local clinics will continue to operate. There will be available appointments, there will be opportunities to book until everyone who is eligible from that group has a chance to do so. So you will not miss your chance for an appointment.”
To help ease congestion, Dr. Oglaza is also asking that only people who are eligible to book right now visit the web site.
“If we have everyone trying to enter that website and see what the process looks like, that’s something that will slow down or delay the ability to book for those who are eligible. So please refrain from checking out the website to see how that process works if you’re not eligible.”
Dr. Oglaza adds that anyone who has already had their first shot, should not be trying to book their second vaccination through the website.
“Those who received their first dose from either health care provider or by direct invitation by the Health Unit, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, they do not book the second dose through the provincial booking system. The provincial booking system is set up that books the first and second appointment and now it takes into account the extended interval between the first and second dose.”
That interval between the first and second dose has been expanded from about three weeks to four months.
Qualifying residents can also call the Provincial Vaccine Booking Line at 1-888-999-6488.
The line is available 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday-Sunday.
Individuals who do not have a photo ID health card will be required to book by phone.
