Hello Ward 8 Neighbours,
Last week, the Ontario government announced eligibility would be expanded for a COVID-19 vaccine for ages six months to under five years. As of July 28, parents and caregivers can now book appointments for their young children to receive a COVID-19 vaccine using the City’s booking tool on www.hamilton.ca/GetYourVaccine.
For more details, please continue reading below…
What families can expect at a local COVID-19 vaccine clinic
As part of Hamilton’s COVID-19 vaccination program, young children can receive a COVID-19 vaccine at a local vaccine clinic that is tailored to their family’s needs, including public health led clinics and participating pharmacies.
Hamilton’s Public Health Services’ Mountain Vaccine Clinic at LimeRidge Mall will have a dedicated area for families who are attending with their children under five for a COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, Hamilton Public Health Services mobile vaccination clinics will have reserved clinic time for this age group.
COVID-19 vaccine appointments for young children six months to under five
With a surge of demand , Hamilton Public Health Services has seen appointments at Hamilton Public Health Services clinics booked up very quickly for this age group. Based on this surge, Health Services will be shifting resources to add more appointments to Hamilton’s booking tool.
It’s important to note as well that due to a high volume of newly-eligible young children in Hamilton – nearly 27,000 – parents and caregivers should check back daily for available appointments and new clinic dates.
Appointments can be booked 14 days in advance, with new appointments being added daily. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to check with local pharmacies who are offering COVID-19 vaccinations.
More information about these options are available at www.hamilton.ca/GetYourVaccine.
Additional resources for Hamilton families
Hamilton Public Health Services understands that some parents and caregivers may be hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine. That’s why the local vaccine strategy for young children six months+ was built in consultation with McMaster Children’s Hospital, local child life specialists and community partners. If parents and caregivers have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, they are encouraged to:
- speak with their health care provider.
- call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900.
- visit the COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service to book a phone appointment with a SickKids Registered Nurse: sickkids.ca/vaccineconsult.
- access information and frequently asked questions can be found atwww.hamilton.ca/childvaccine.
Questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact our office here.