Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/ November 15, 2021 – Hastings and Prince Edward Counties have reached a significant milestone in the fight against COVID-19. Of residents aged 12 and older, 90 per cent have received one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 85 per cent of this age group have received two doses. Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) would like to thank all residents who have made the safe choice to protect themselves, and others, through COVID-19 vaccination. HPEPH would also like to thank all staff and community partners who have, and who continue to contribute to ongoing efforts to protect the community and end the pandemic.

“Local residents who have chosen to get vaccinated are commended for their efforts to keep the community safe, as getting fully vaccinated is the best possible protection against COVID-19,” says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Acting Medical Officer of Health at HPEPH. “If you have not yet received your vaccination, please do not delay. As more individuals in the community become fully vaccinated, our community immunity increases, which means better protection for everyone.”

First and second doses of COVID-19 vaccine continue to be offered through walk-in appointments at HPEPH vaccination clinics, and are also available at participating local pharmacies. With cold weather approaching, and more time spent indoors, there is increased risk of potential spread of the virus. Protect yourself and those around you by getting fully vaccinated as soon as possible.

Some individuals may also be eligible for a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine, or may become eligible in the coming weeks. Once 168 days (approximately six months) have passed since their second dose, the following groups can receive a booster dose of the vaccine:

• Residents 70 years of age or older (born in 1951 or earlier)
• First Nations, Inuit, and Métis adults and their adult household members
• Individuals who received two doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
• Individuals who received one dose of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine
• Health care workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings (including long-term care home and retirement home staff and designated caregivers)
• Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, elder care lodges, and individuals 65 years of age and older living in other congregate settings

Eligible individuals can book an appointment for a booster dose in Belleville or Picton using the provincial booking site. Walk-ins for booster doses are being accepted in Bancroft and Picton.