High-risk residents recommended to roll up a sleeve, get extra protection
HAMILTON, ON – In alignment with direction from the Ontario Ministry of Health, Hamiltonians at high-risk of severe illness from a COVID-19 infection are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination this spring.
The following high-risk community members are recommended to receive a dose if it has been six months since their most recent COVID-19 vaccination or infection:
- Individuals aged 65 years and older
- Adult residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings for seniors
- Individuals aged 55 years and older who identify as First Nations, Inuit or Metis and their non-Indigenous household members aged 55 years and older
- Individuals six months of age and older with moderately to severely immunocompromising conditions
“Though current COVID-19 activity in our community is low, it does continue to circulate,” said Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Medical Officer of Health. “We’re encouraging those Hamiltonians at increased risk of severe illness from the virus to receive an additional dose of COVID-19 vaccination this spring.”
Eligible high-risk individuals can access COVID-19 vaccines through participating local pharmacies, primary care and community partners, or through their congregate setting residence. A list of local pharmacies providing COVID-19 vaccines can be found at ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.
Hamilton Public Health Services vaccine clinics will start April 22, 2024. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines and to book an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccination at a Hamilton Public Health Services clinic, visit hamilton.ca/GetYourVaccine.
“COVID-19 vaccines are now available for folks who are recommended to get an extra boost of protection this spring,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Let’s keep Hamilton healthy – please consider rolling up your sleeve and booking an appointment.”
Quick Facts
- Vaccine administration for ages six months to under five years old may vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. Community members should contact the pharmacy before booking an appointment to confirm.
- COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test kits can be picked up from select City of Hamilton locations. For an up-to-date list of locationsand information about who can benefit from this program, visit hamilton.ca/covidtesting.
- Public health guidance shows that vaccines provide a high level of protection against COVID-19 and its variants, and can reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
- Parents are reminded to follow the Ontario routine immunization schedule. If your child has missed vaccinations or if you are unsure about which vaccinations they have received, contact your health care provider or Hamilton Public Health Services to get their vaccination schedule up-to-date.