Vaccine appointments for second doses must be rebooked, Sudbury health unit says
The good news is Ontario is accelerating the timeline for residents to get their second shot of COVID-19. But that also means if you already booked your appointment, you have to reschedule it for the earlier date.
In a news release Thursday, Public Health Sudbury & Districts said most second-dose appointments booked for July 12 or later to receive Pfizer or Moderna shots will be automatically cancelled.
Anyone who is currently eligible for an accelerated second dose and has already rebooked their appointment is not affected by the cancellations.
“Protection against getting sick with the more infectious and dangerous Delta variant requires two doses," Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, medical officer of health, is quoted as saying in a news release.
"With a steady vaccine supply, we are aiming to meet provincial targets and speed up second doses to really have a two-dose summer.”
The original appointments were made when limited vaccine supply meant that a longer interval was required. Public Health will also notify those that are affected by an email and/or robocall.
“Everyone 12 and older should book an appointment for their first dose and anyone eligible for their second dose is strongly encouraged to rebook their appointment or attend a walk-in clinic as soon as possible,” Sutcliffe added.
Pending confirmation, starting the week of June 28, Ontarians aged 18 and older can book their second dose vaccine appointments as soon as 28 days after their first dose of an mRNA vaccine.
Who is not affected by cancellations
If you already rebooked your second dose earlier than your original appointment (112-day interval), your appointment is not affected, even if the clinic occurs after July 12. Appointments made through pharmacies or primary care are also not affected by these cancellations.
If you have any questions about your second dose appointment, call the health unit at 705-522-9200, toll-free 1-866-522-9200.
Rebooking a second dose for adults 18 years of age and older
Once you are eligible for an accelerated second dose, click here or call 705.674.2299 (toll-free 1.800.708.2505), to rebook your appointment. Online booking is a simple and efficient process and helps reduce call volumes. Individuals can also help people who are eligible by booking an appointment on their behalf.
Eligible individuals can also choose to attend a Public Health walk-in clinic if available or can book their second dose through pharmacies and primary care providers.
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