BARRIE

How do I get the coronavirus vaccine in Simcoe Muskoka?

Published Thursday, February 25, 2021 4:24PM EST Last Updated Thursday, July 8, 2021 4:42PM EDT

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BARRIE, ONT. -- The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) has a community strategy to vaccinate the majority of over half a million residents over several months.

The health unit follows Ontario's three-phased plan for vaccine distribution, which involves vaccinating thousands of residents daily through various vaccine clinics.

Here are some of your questions answered about the vaccination program across Simcoe Muskoka.

WHO CAN GET VACCINATED RIGHT NOW?

Simcoe Muskoka was added to Ontario's list of Delta variant hot spots, accelerating vaccinations across the region for residents.

FIRST DOSES

The Simcoe Muskoka health unit offers drop-in vaccinations to residents 12 and older who require their first dose at any of its 13 clinics across the region. No appointment necessary.

Adults 18+ Residents in this age group can book an appointment using the provincial online booking system.

Children 12 to 17 Children in this age group can have an appointment booked to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Parents or guardians must accompany children at their appointment.

AstraZeneca The province paused first doses of the AstraZeneca shot. Those who already received the first shot are cleared to get their second AstraZeneca shot when their time comes, or they can choose to receive a dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

WHO IS NEXT IN LINE?

Ontario has now opened up eligibility to everyone over the age of 12, regardless of their health conditions, locations or employment.

No information has been provided thus far about COVID-19 vaccinations for people under the age of 12.

HOW WILL I FIND OUT WHEN I CAN RECEIVE THE VACCINE?

To check when you will be eligible for the vaccine, head to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's website for updates.

WHERE DO I SIGN UP?

Book an appointment online or call the provincial booking line at 1-833-943-3900 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. seven days a week..

The system doesn't allow group bookings, so each individual needs their own appointment.

Alternatively, check the SMDHU website for more details on how to book an appointment.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT?

Do not arrive early for your appointment, and wear a mask.
Dress for the weather because you could be waiting outdoors.
Bring an Ontario health card or proof of eligibility.
Indigenous adults need to bring proof of ancestry and residency to confirm eligibility. Contact the local Indigenous organization if these documents are readily available.
Children under 18 need a parent or guardian to accompany them at their appointment.

HOW TO CANCEL PREVIOUSLY BOOKED APPOINTMENTS?

Individuals who book through the provincial system shouldn't need to cancel second dose appointments. The system should automatically update.

WHEN DO I GET MY SECOND DOSE?

The province accelerated second doses for Simcoe Muskoka residents after declaring the region a Delta variant hot spot.

Residents who don't have their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine are believed to be less protected against the Delta variant, which is said to be 50 per cent more transmissible than other strains.

Children 12 to 17 can book their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Pfizer or Moderna Residents who received an mRNA vaccine for their first shot can book their second 28 days later.

AstraZeneca Those who received their first dose of AstraZeneca and are opting to receive a second dose of the same can contact the provider of their first dose.
Anyone choosing an mRNA vaccine after having AstraZeneca for their first can do so at a participating pharmacy, or the provincial booking site eight to 12 weeks after your first dose.

The accelerated second doses will continue based on the province's schedule.