The most recent COVID-19 vaccine and this year’s flu shot are now available to the public in Grey-Bruce.
“Vaccination is particularly important for individuals considered high-risk for developing serious complications from the flu or COVID-19, including adults aged 65 and up, residents of long-term care homes, people with underlying medical conditions , and First Nations residents.”
The health unit has been working to make it as convenient as possible to receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Residents with a primary care provider like a family physician can book their appointment with their doctor’s office. The health unit has created an online map of pharmacies, family health teams and other health-care organizations that are providing the vaccines to the public.
Regular COVID-19 and flu vaccines clinics are planned by the health unit in Owen Sound and other communities through November and December. The clinics will prioritize vaccinating children 12 and under, those without a primary care provider and those considered high-risk.
A schedule of clinics is available at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/About-Us/Event-Calendar , while appointments can be booked by going to Ontario.ca/book-vaccine
Those six months and older are considered up to date on COVID-19 vaccines if they received a dose this fall. The Ministry of Health recommends that those who have been previously vaccinated against COVID-19 receive a dose of the XBB.1.5-containing COVID-19 mRNA vaccine if it has been six months since their previous COVID vaccine dose or known infection. Those who have not been previously vaccinated may also receive the vaccine to initiate the series, the health unit said.
The flu vaccine is also recommended for those six months and older, and they can receive the COVID and flu shots at the same time.
Along with the vaccines, residents can protect themselves, their families and community from respiratory illness by staying home when sick, cleaning hands and disinfecting high-touch surfaces frequently and practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette, the health unit said.
