Ontario Expanding Fourth Vaccine Dose Eligibility To 60+

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The Ontario government is expanding eligibility for fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals aged 60 and over as well as First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over starting on April 7th.

The government says expanding booster eligibility will provide an extra layer of protection against the Omicron and BA.2 variants.

“As we continue to live with COVID-19, we are using every tool available to manage this virus and reduce its impact on our hospitals and health system, including by expanding the use of booster doses,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, in a news release. “Vaccines are our best defence against COVID-19 and its variants. Because of our exceptionally high vaccination rates and Ontario’s cautious approach, we currently have one of the lowest hospitalization rates in the country and have performed well throughout this pandemic when compared to other similar sized provinces and states. I encourage everyone who’s eligible to get boosted as soon as you’re able.”

Starting on Thursday, April 7th at 8:00am, eligible individuals will be able to book their fourth dose appointment.

The Windsor Essex County Health Unit is expected to release information soon on how to book appointments. Fourth doses will also be available at participating pharmacies, and participating primary care providers.

The province has been offering fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine since December 30th, 2021 to vulnerable populations including residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, First Nation elder care lodges and older adults in other congregate care settings that provide assisted-living and health services.

The government says all eligible Ontarians are encouraged to get their fourth dose as soon as possible.