Point Edward, ON – Lambton Public Health (LPH) is focusing on addressing access barriers for vulnerable populations as part of its fall 2024 respiratory illness season immunization campaign.
Ontario’s Ministry of Health has expanded access points with pharmacies and health care providers as the primary sources for COVID-19 and influenza (flu) vaccines, directing focus for public health units on reaching populations with limited vaccine access options.
Pharmacies and health care providers are expected to begin receiving their vaccine shipments in mid-October, ahead of the general eligibility date as outlined below.
“Expanded access points for COVID-19 and flu vaccines throughout the community will allow Lambton Public Health to deliver services to populations who have barriers to accessing these vaccines,” said Dr. Karalyn Dueck, Medical Officer of Health for Lambton County.
“Appointment availability with LPH may look different than in years past, but it is important to remember that everyone who wants to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be able to receive them, with increased vaccine access points enhancing community protection for all.”
Who is eligible and when
- Early October: Individuals in hospitals and long-term care homes
- Mid-October: High-risk individuals, including:
- Children ages 6 months to 4 years
- People in or from First Nations communities
- Pregnant individuals
- People ages 65 years and older
- First responders
- Monday, Oct. 28: General public
Where to get vaccinated
LPH will offer specialized pediatric clinics beginning Tuesday, Oct. 17. A mobile clinic will also serve specific populations, such as First Nations communities and homebound individuals.
To book your child’s vaccination appointment with LPH, please call 519-383-8331.
All other residents are encouraged to book vaccine appointments through their health care provider or a local pharmacy as they become eligible. Pharmacies offering the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be found by visiting Ontario’s Ministry of Health website.
Stay protected this season
While staying up to date with immunizations is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others, it is just one of several basic actions you can take to protect those around you. Other actions include:
- Staying home when you are sick and wearing a mask until day 10 from symptom onset
- Practicing good hand hygiene and regularly cleaning surfaces
- Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Considering wearing a mask, particularly if you are high-risk
- Speaking with your health care provider about antiviral treatment options if you are high-risk
- Optimizing indoor air quality and spending time outdoors if possible
For more information on staying healthy during respiratory illness season, visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca or call us at 519-383-8331.
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