Hastings Prince Edward Public Health currently has a limited number of appointments for individuals at high-risk of COVID-19-related complications or hospitalization. The XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine will help to prevent severe outcomes due to COVID-19. Appointments for high-risk individuals can be booked at ontario.ca/book-vaccine/ or by calling 1-833-943-3900 (Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Please be aware that these appointments are booked through the province, not through HPEPH. As these appointments are limited, residents are encouraged to seek vaccines through their primary care provider or local pharmacies if this is an option. High-risk individuals include:
- Residents and staff of congregate living settings (e.g., chronic care facilities, retirement homes)
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals ≥ 65 years of age
- All children 6 months to 4 years of age [based on influenza risk]
- Individuals who are from a First Nation, Inuit or Métis community, and/or who self-identify as First Nation, Inuit, or Métis, and their household members
- Individuals 6 months of age and older with underlying health conditions
- Members of racialized and other equity deserving communities
- Health care workers and first responders
Vaccines for general public available October 30
Free flu and COVID-19 vaccines for the general public will be available starting October 30 from primary care providers and pharmacies. To learn more visit Ontario.ca/flu and ontario.ca/vaccine-locations/.
HPEPH says it is also important to stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if it has been 6 months since your last dose or infection with COVID-19.
