Lambton Public Health is working to make it easier for vulnerable groups to get vaccines as part of its immunization campaign for the fall 2024 respiratory illness season. Ontario’s Ministry of Health has increased access points at pharmacies and healthcare providers for COVID-19 and flu vaccines. Public health units are now focusing on reaching people who have trouble accessing these vaccines.
Pharmacies and healthcare providers are expected to receive their vaccine shipments in mid-October, before the general eligibility date.
In early October, individuals in hospitals and long-term care homes will be eligible. By mid-October, high-risk individuals, including children aged 6 months to 4 years, people from First Nations communities, pregnant individuals, people aged 65 and older, and first responders can get vaccinated. The general public can start getting vaccinated on Monday, October 28.
Lambton Public Health will have special clinics for children starting Tuesday, October 17th. A mobile clinic will also be available for specific groups like First Nations communities and those who are unable to leave home. Parents can call 519-383-8331 to book a vaccination appointment for their child. Other residents are encouraged to schedule appointments with their healthcare provider or a local pharmacy as they become eligible.
To stay healthy during this season, keeping up with vaccinations is very important, but there are also other actions to take. These include staying home when sick and wearing a mask for up to 10 days after symptoms start, practicing good hand hygiene, regularly cleaning surfaces, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, considering wearing a mask if you are at high risk, discussing antiviral treatments with your healthcare provider, improving indoor air quality, and spending time outside when possible.
For more information on staying healthy during the respiratory illness season, visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca or call 519-383-8331.
Written by: K. Milhomens