York Region residents 70 and older or in high-priority groups can now book an appointment for a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine.
The province opened up eligibility Sept. 12 for the vaccines, which are meant to provide stronger protection against the Omicron variant of COVID-19. For now, York Region said it is offering these vaccines by appointment only.
Eligible groups include long-term care residents, health-care providers, pregnant individuals, immunocompromised 12 and older, and Indigenous adults.
"We look forward to making this vaccine available to York Region residents," York Region medical officer of health Dr. Barry Pakes said in a video update last week.
The province plans to open up bivalent boosters to all adults Sept. 26. The recommended interval is six months after your last booster dose, but the minimum interval is three months.
“The bivalent COVID-19 booster is a safe and effective way for people to better protect themselves against the most recently circulating COVID-19 variants in Ontario,” Ontario chief medical officer of health Dr. Kieran Moore said in a news release.
Bookings can be made at york.ca/covid19vaccine or through the provincial booking system. The vaccines are also available at participating pharmacies. York Region runs a clinic at 17150 Yonge St. in Newmarket.
"Even if you haven't had one or both of your boosters yet, it is important to have the protection afforded by this bivalent vaccine. So please, get vaccinated as soon as you are eligible," Pakes said.
The region has been offering walk-ins for many COVID-19 vaccines in the past several months. But as of Sept. 12, the region’s vaccination website said walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccines are not available and to book an appointment instead.
Director of corporate communications Patrick Casey said it is a way to better manage esources with an expected vaccine demand increase with the introduction of the bivalent vaccine.
"By temporarily pausing walk-ins, we are better able to plan and manage vaccine supply and staff resources, which ensures a smoother clinic experience for those coming in," Casey said.
Appointments will open 10 days in advance, with releases each morning on the York Region website.
