Groups in Sudbury eligible for COVID vaccine can enter lottery to receive their shot

SUDBURY -- Public Health Sudbury & Districts said Friday pre-registration for the COVID-19 vaccine is now available for adults 80 years of age and older and people who receive chronic home care services.

Because of limited vaccine supply, everyone who is eligible and pre-registers by March 8 will enter a lottery. Names will be drawn until the vaccine supply is exhausted, the health unit said in a news release.

"Although all adults 80 years of age and older and individuals receiving chronic home care are currently eligible for vaccine, the vaccine supply is limited," the release said.

"Lotteries will be held to match vaccine recipients to the number of doses available. Individuals drawn from the lottery will be contacted directly, by email or phone, with information on how to book an appointment."

COVID-19 vaccine clinics will be held across Sudbury and districts and all clinics are by appointment only. Currently, vaccine clinics are being organized in Greater Sudbury on March 11-12. Individuals in these groups who pre-register by March 8 at 8 p.m., will be entered into a lottery for the upcoming scheduled clinics in Sudbury.

"Additional clinics are also being planned across Public Health’s service area and details will be shared once available," the release said.

Pre-registration will remain open and lotteries will be ongoing to match pre-registrants to the vaccine supply and clinic schedules across Sudbury and districts. Due to high demand and limited supply, pre-registering does not mean you will get an appointment immediately.

To pre-register, click here. If unable to pre-register online and assistance registering is required, call 1-800-708-2505 and call centre staff will available to help. The call centre will be available for assistance starting March 6, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.

"While appointments may be limited at first, over time, more clinics will continue to be available and anyone eligible to receive the vaccine will be able to receive one," the health unit said. "More vaccine clinics will continue to be scheduled across Public Health’s service area. The COVID-19 vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from the virus."

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, contact your health care provider, visit our frequently asked questions about the vaccine, or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 1-705-522-9200, toll-free 1-866-522-9200.