COVID-19: Resources
Taras Natyshak MPP, Essex
The rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine is top of mind for all of us, and I've heard from a number of residents who are eager for news. I want to share an update based on what we know so far, to keep you up to date.
NEW: Provincial booking system launched (March 15):
Individuals who will be turning 80 or older in 2021 (born in 1941 or earlier) and wish to make an appointment — or an individual trusted to make an appointment on their behalf — can visit Ontario.ca/bookvaccine. On this page, they will be guided to make an appointment through the provincial booking system, or their local public health unit if there is a local public health unit booking system or call centre in place. When booking an appointment, individuals will be asked for information from their green Ontario health card, birth date, postal code and email address and/or phone number. At the time of booking, eligible individuals will schedule their first and second vaccination appointments.
Individuals who still have a red and white health card, or who require assistance with booking, can call the Provincial Vaccine Information Line number at 1-888-999-6488 beginning on Monday, March 15.
Astra-Zeneca pilot program in pharmacies
The Astra-Zeneca vaccine is now being offered to 60-64 year olds in pharmacies and some family physician offices as part of a provincial pilot program.
You can find a full list of pharmacies offering vaccines in our community and find out how to make an appointment here.
Phase 1: What you need to know:
Who's eligible right now?
People who are 80 years of age and older (born in 1941 or before)
Health care workers in Highest Priority and Very High Priority risk groups (as defined by the provincial guidelines)
Indigenous Adults (16 years of age or older)
Adults receiving chronic home care
Where can I register?
Eligible people in the above categories can currently book appointments to receive a vaccine through local hospitals and health teams. Register here: https://www.wechu.org/cv/vaccine
The provincial registration system, called COVaxON, is a web-based portal and call centre that will be operational starting on March 15th with appointments starting on March 22nd.
Next steps in the immunization plan
Find out who is eligible in Phase 2 (begins in April).
Learn more about the status of the vaccine rollout, vaccine safety and how the province is prioritizing the public here: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-vaccines-ontario
COVID-19: Resources COVID-19: Bulletin Your Voice
Room 370 Main Legislative Building
Toronto, ON M7A 1A5
Community Office
316 Talbot St. N
Essex, ON N8M 2E1
Community Office Hours
Monday : 9:30AM – 4:00PM
Wednesday: Closed (Case Work). Appointment only.
The office is closed from noon to 1pm daily for lunch.