Close Alert Banner
Skip to Content

Southwestern Public Health Logo

Contact Us
A - Z TopicsNewsroomLocations and HoursContact Us1-800-922-0096
  • Classes, Clinics and Services
    • Dental Clinics
    • Food Handler Certification
    • Immunization Clinics
    • Influenza (Flu) Clinics
    • Needle Exchange Program
    • Pregnancy and Baby Supports
    • Quit Smoking
    • Sexual Health Clinics
    • TB Skin Testing
    • Tick Identification
    • Well Water Testing
  • My Health
    • Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco
    • Animal Bites and Rabies
    • Body Art and Personal Care
    • Child and Family Health
    • Dental Health
    • Immunization and Vaccines
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Food and Eating
    • Personal Safety and Injury Prevention
    • Mental Health
    • Physical Activity
    • Sexual Health
    • Vector-Borne Diseases
  • Community Health
    • Emergency Preparedness
    • Enforcement of Smoke-Free Spaces
    • Environmental Health
    • Food Safety
    • Health Inspect
    • Health Equity and Fairness
    • Personal Service Settings
    • Road Safety
    • Safe Needle Disposal
    • School Health
    • Walking, Biking, Hiking
  • Partners & Professionals
    • Child Care Centres
    • Educators
    • Food Service Operators
    • Health Care Providers
    • Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes
    • Congregate Living Settings
    • Recreational Facilities
    • Southwest IPAC Hub
    • Outbreak Activity
  • Reports & Statistics
    • Community Health Status
    • Evaluations and Situational Assessments
    • Evidence Reviews
    • Health Inspect
    • General Reports
    • Position Statements
    • Surveillance Dashboards
  • About Us
    • Accessibility
    • Board of Health
    • Careers
    • Contact Us
    • Corporate Culture and Values
    • Events Calendar
    • Health Equity and Fairness
    • Locations and Hours
    • News and Media
    • Performance and Accountability
    Click to view About Us
    About Us

COVID-19 Vaccine

Home...Infectious DiseasesCOVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus)COVID-19 Vaccine
  • Open new window to share this page via Facebook Facebook
  • Open new window to share this page via Twitter Twitter
  • Open new window to share this page via LinkedIn LinkedIn
  • Email this page Email

Click here to visit our COVID-19 vaccine page for healthcare providers.

a person being vaccinated
How to get vaccinated
Calendar appointment
Preparing for your vaccination
Three generations shown
Who can get vaccinated
Ontario vaccination record
Get your proof of vaccination receipt
Young person in a mask
Youth vaccination
Question marks
Common questions (FAQs)

How to get vaccinated

Click to learn about Transportation options for our vaccination clinics or connect with the Accessible Drive to Vaccines program in partnership with the Ontario Community Support Association.

 

Mass Vaccination Clinics - Family Friendly - Walk-ins Only

On July 13, 2022, Ontario expanded second booster eligibility to include those aged 18-59. This was further expanded on July 21 to include certain immunocompromised Ontarians aged 12-17 who have received a three-dose primary series; they will be eligible as of June 28 for a second booster (fifth dose) at a recommended interval of six months after their fourth was given. 

On July 21, 2022, Ontario announced that vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 5 years will begin July 28. Southwestern Public Health's clinic locations in Woodstock and St. Thomas will vaccinate this age group - as will all of our mobile clinics. Please note, at this time, GOVAXX Bus Clinics will NOT vaccinate children under the age of 5. 

Southwestern Public Health
1230 Talbot St
St. Thomas

Open Mondays and Fridays

9:00AM to 4:00PM, closed Noon to 1:00PM daily

South Gate Centre

191 Old Wellington St S
Woodstock

Open Mondays

9:00AM to 4:00PM, closed Noon to 1:00PM

Oxford Auditorium 

875 Nellis St

Woodstock

 

NEW Location starting July 29th

9:00AM to 4:00PM, closed Noon to 1:00PM daily

OPEN July 29, August 3 and 5

Pop-Up Vaccination Clinics - Family Friendly - Walk-ins Only 

 St. Thomas & Elgin County
  • August 17, 10AM - 2:30PM, West Lorne Arena (171 Graham Road, West Lorne)
  • August 31, 10AM - 2:30PM, West Lorne Arena (171 Graham Road, West Lorne)
 Woodstock & Oxford County
  • August 9, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Unifor Local 88 (364 Victoria St., Ingersoll)
  • August 11, 9:00AM - 11:30AM, Plattsville Arena (68 Mills St., Plattsville)
  • August 11, 1PM - 3:30PM, Princeton Centennial Hall (35 Main St., Princeton)
  • August 16, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Unifor Local 88 (364 Victoria St., Ingersoll)
  • August 18, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Tavistock & District Memorial Hall (3 Adam St., Tavistock)
  • August 23, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Unifor Local 88 (364 Victoria St., Ingersoll)
  • August 24, 9:00AM - 11:30AM, Plattsville Arena (68 Mills St., Plattsville)
  • August 24, 1PM - 3:30PM, Princeton Centennial Hall (35 Main St., Princeton)
  • August 25, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Tavistock & District Memorial Hall (3 Adam St., Tavistock)
  • August 26, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Unifor Local 88 (364 Victoria St., Ingersoll)
  • August 30, 9:30AM - 3:30PM, Unifor Local 88 (364 Victoria St., Ingersoll)

GoVaxx Bus and Indoor Vaccination Clinics

Click here or call 1-833-943-3900 to book an appointment. Walk-ins welcome at any clinic. The Govaxx team is able to vaccinate anyone 5+ with Pfizer. Due to the GoVaxx bus only carrying Pfizer, the team will be unable to vaccinate children 6 months - 5 years looking to receive the Moderna Spikevav at this time. Please refer to our Mass Vaccination and Pop-Up clinic locations above for a clinic near you.

 St. Thomas & Elgin County
  • August 8, 11AM - 5PM, *NEW LOCATION* Bayham Twp Fire Station 1 (55451 Nova Scotia Line, Port Burwell)
  • August 11, 11AM - 5PM, East Elgin Community Complex (531 Talbot St. West, Aylmer)
  • August 18, 11AM - 5PM, East Elgin Community Complex (531 Talbot St. West, Aylmer)
  • August 22, 11AM - 5PM, Vienna and Lion's Community Centre (Indoor, 26 Fulton St., Vienna)
  • August 23, 11AM - 5PM, Vienna and Lion's Community Centre (Indoor, 26 Fulton St., Vienna)
  • August 25, 11AM - 5PM, East Elgin Community Complex (531 Talbot St. West, Aylmer)
 Woodstock & Oxford County
  • August 9, 11AM - 5PM, Tillsonburg Community Complex - new Memorial Park parking lot (45 Hardy Ave., Tillsonburg) 
  • August 10, 11AM - 5PM, Woodstock District Community Complex (381 Finkle St., Woodstock)
  • August 11, 12PM - 7PM, Woodstock Market Series (466 Dundas St., Woodstock)
  • August 12, 12PM - 7PM, Summer Street Fest (422 Oxford 2, Woodstock)
  • August 13, 12PM - 7PM, Summer Street Fest (422 Oxford 2, Woodstock)
  • August 15, 11AM - 7PM, Norwich Community Centre (53 Stover St., S, Norwich)
  • August 17, 11AM - 5PM, Woodstock District Community Complex (381 Finkle St., Woodstock)
  • August 23, 11AM - 5PM, Tillsonburg Community Complex - new Memorial Park parking lot (45 Hardy Ave., Tillsonburg) 
  • August 24, 11AM - 5PM, Woodstock District Community Complex (381 Finkle St., Woodstock)
  • August 25, 12PM - 7PM, Woodstock Market Series (466 Dundas St., Woodstock)
  • August 30, 11AM - 5PM, Tillsonburg Community Complex - new Memorial Park parking lot (45 Hardy Ave., Tillsonburg) 
  • August 31, 11AM - 5PM, Woodstock District Community Complex (381 Finkle St., Woodstock)
 Other ways to be vaccinated

Public Health Clinics in Middlesex-London
www.covidvaccineLM.ca or call 226-289-3560 (9.00a.m. to 5:00p.m., seven days a week)

 

Pharmacy 
Book directly with participating pharmacies listed below.

Pharmasave Huron Street, 95 Huron Street, Woodstock (519) 539-2888

Yurek Pharmacy Ltd., 519 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (519) 631-3330

Shoppers Drug Mart, 959 Dundas Street, Woodstock (519) 537-2042

Shoppers Drug Mart, 200 Broadway, Tillsonburg (519) 842-3521

Shoppers Drug Mart, 410 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (519) 631-2300

Shoppers Drug Mart, 19 Stover Street N, Norwich (519) 863-2401

 

Primary Care
Participating primary care providers will inform their patients directly if they offer vaccines. 

How many doses am I eligible for?

It is now known that the protection from the COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time. When you get a booster dose, your protection rises quickly again - ensuring you are protected from serious illness and hospitalization. While early in the vaccination efforts we considered that "fully vaccinated" meant two doses. Evidence now shows that "fully vaccinated" means being up-to-date with all the vaccines you are eligible for. Read Ontario's May 2 Guidance on Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 vaccines. 

Please click here to find out if you are eligible for another dose.

COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Canada

Learn about the approved COVID-19 vaccines from Health Canada, including how they work, how they are given, ingredients, allergies, possible side effects and more:

  • Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine

  • Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine

  • AstraZeneca Vaxzevria COVID-19 vaccine

  • Novavax Nuvaxovid COVID-19 vaccine

  • Medicago Covifenz COVID-19 vaccine

  • Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine

Eligibility-related questions

I am aged 12 or older and had a first dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna). When can I get my second? 

You can get your second dose if it has been a minimum of 8 weeks since your first. You may safely receive either mRNA brand as a second or third dose. They are both mRNA vaccines and they are interchangeable (meaning it doesn't matter what brand name you receive).

Age-Specific Guidance

  • Anyone 12-29 years of age are suggested to receive Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) as advised by the Ontario Ministry of Health, unless they request Moderna (Spikevax) through informed consent.
  • Adults aged 30 and older can safely accept either mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) interchangeably. 

I had a first dose of Astra Zeneca. When can I get my second?

Contact SWPH at 1-800-922-0096 ext. 9 (8:30-4:30, Monday to Friday) if you would like an appointment.

Who can get a booster dose (third or more)?

Please click here to find out if you are eligible for a booster dose.

First Booster: Individuals who have yet to receive a first booster are recommended to get it as soon as eligible to stay up-to-date.

Second Booster: On July 13, 2022, Ontario expanded second booster dose eligibility of the COVID-19 vaccine to include individuals aged 18-59. The Ministry of Health has yet to publish final guidance for this eligibility update.

High-risk individuals who should get their second booster dose as soon as possible (many of whom have been eligible to do so for months) include:

  • Individuals aged 60 and older;
  • First Nation, Inuit, and Metis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and older;
  • Residents of a long-term care, retirement home, or Elder Care Lodge and older adults living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services; and
  • Individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised.

Timing:

  • Eligible to receive a second booster dose at 5 months or longer (140 days), and at a minimum of 3 months (84 days), after their first booster dose.
  • Wait 3 months since a COVID-19 infection.

Those aged 18-59 who are otherwise healthy are encouraged to make an informed decision about second booster timing based on their personal circumstances, or to speak with their primary care provider about whether now is the right time for a second booster. 

Second Booster in a Three-Dose Primary Series (Fifth Dose): Beginning July 28, immunocompromised Ontarians aged 12-17 who have received a three-dose primary series - are eligible for a second booster (fifth dose) at a recommended interval of six months after their fourth was given. Those who are aged 18 and older and have one of these immunocompromising conditions were already eligible for a second booster (fifth dose).

I had my first or second dose outside of Ontario or Canada. What should be my booster dose?

COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by Health Canada 

The World Health Organization added some vaccines authorized in other countries to their Emergency Use List. Ontario's Ministry of Health aims to balance optimal protection against COVID-19 by offering a dose of a Health Canada approved mRNA vaccine (e.g. Pfizer or Moderna) to specific individuals who have been vaccinated outside of Canada. 

Read the Ministry Guidance for full details, including scenarios for what to do if you have been vaccinated outside of Ontario or Canada. 

When can I get the Novavax or Medicago vaccine? 

Health Canada has approved both the Novavax Nuvaxovid and Medicago Covifenz COVID-19 vaccines. Neither vaccine is available in Ontario yet.

Novavax:

  • approved in Canada for ages 18 and older
  • two dose series, at least 21 days apart
  • 90% effective in preventing COVID-19 symptoms, and 100% effective in preventing serious illness
  • traditionally-made vaccine (not mRNA)
  • free in Ontario; you do not need a health card to access it

Southwestern Public Health expects to receive a limited supply of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine in April 2022 or shortly after. If you are interested in this vaccine and live in the Southwestern Public Health region, call 1-800-922-0096 ext. 9 to be added to the waitlist or to learn more information. Those who speak Low German can press 1 for the St. Thomas site, then 2 to leave a message.

Medicago:

The timeline for Medicago supply and guidance is not yet known.

Youth vaccination

You must be the minimum eligible age by the date of your vaccination. 

For children under 12, Southwestern Public Health will require a parent or legal guardian to provide consent at the appointment. For some families, the decision to vaccinate is an easy one –  for others, it takes a bit longer to decide. Both are okay. Our team is here to answer your questions and support you in your decision making.

 Why vaccinate youth & children against COVID-19?
Although children and youth have been less likely to get seriously ill from a COVID-19 infection, they can still get sick from a COVID-19 infection, spread it to others, be infected without symptoms, and experience longer-term effects of an infection. Children and youth with some underlying medical conditions may also have a higher risk for severe illness from a COVID-19 infection.

As well, children in Ontario have been impacted by COVID-19 measures to control spread, including attending school remotely, missing out on sports and social activities, and other impacts to their mental well-being.

Vaccinating all eligible individuals helps reduce community spread of COVID-19, allowing us all to recover from the pandemic, sooner.

Additional support:

COVID-19 Vaccines for Children & Youth Factsheet (Ontario)


Video: Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, provides advice for families about the importance of vaccinating children, once eligible. (Source: CBC.ca, 2021)

 COVID-19 vaccine research and safety for youth & children

All vaccines in Canada are heavily regulated by Health Canada. It is illegal to sell or market a vaccine in Canada that has not completed all required stages of research and safety trials. Visit Health Canada's website to learn more about how the vaccines are studied and tested for youth and children in Canada. 

For children under 12, Southwestern Public Health will require a parent or legal guardian to provide consent at the appointment.

Children aged five to 11 will receive the pediatric Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine which is a slightly modified, lower dose (one-third the amount given to individuals aged 12 and over), in a two-dose series at a recommended interval of eight weeks between first and second doses.

Children aged 6 months to 5 years will soon be able to access COVID-19 vaccine. On July 21, the Ontario government announced this age group can start booking appointments beginning July 28. Southwestern Public Health will share details for local clinics once supply arrives at the health unit.

Additional resources:

  • The Comfort Promise brought to you by Sick Kids
  • My Comfort Plan from the Children's Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre
  • Current status of vaccine research and safety reviews from Health Canada
  • Vaccine safety information from the Ministry of Health
  • Health Canada reported side effects following COVID-19 vaccination in Canada (updated weekly)
  • Ministry of Health - COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet: For Children (Age 5-11)
  • SWPH: COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet (Ages 5-11)
  • The Max the Vax Campaign was created by Canadian physicians and health care providers to offer credible information to parents and caregivers about the COVID-19 vaccine. 

    Max Facts for Caregivers of Children (Aged 5-11)

    Max Facts for Youth (Aged 5-11)

Should a child turning 12 wait to get an adult dose?

Because of the circulating illness in our community and risk of transmission it's best is to get vaccinated now; get some immunity building and protection developing.

If a child gets their first dose as a pediatric dose, and turns 12 before their second dose, their second dose will be the adult dose.

Size doesn’t really matter with vaccines (consider a 7-foot tall NBA basketball player gets the same vaccine dose as the 5-foot tall gymnast!) – but the current guidance suggests this is the best approach for children.
 How to talk to youth & children about COVID-19 vaccination

Children often look to trusted adults for cues that may help build confidence or reaffirm fears. Provide clear, calm language to children to reduce fears and anxiety. 

For example, if your child is afraid of the pain of a needle, avoid telling your child the needle won’t hurt. Instead, acknowledge that needles do hurt, even for adults, and that nurses have strategies to help make it hurt less.

Here are helpful resources to help children and youth feel confident about their decision to be vaccinated.

  • Tips for speaking to children about COVID-19 vaccines from UNICEF.org
  • Deciding to vaccinate, with guidance about general vaccination discussions with children, from Health Canada
  • COVID-19 Vaccination & You: A family’s guide to COVID-19 vaccination for youth aged 5+ 
  • Information to read together with your child from experts in children's care at McMaster Children's Hospital, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Toronto Sick Kids, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Centre, LHSC Children's Hospital and others.
  • Frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccine for children and youth, endorsed by leading Ontario children’s hospitals.
  • Pediatric Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine: Frequently Asked Questions from the Ontario Ministry of Health.
  • Find more support at Ontario.ca/covidvaccinekids
 Where to direct questions about COVID-19 vaccines for youth & children

Your child’s primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner) is the best resource for answering questions about your child’s health.

If you have general questions about COVID-19 vaccination for children, you can also call:

SickKids Toronto Vaccine Consult Service
COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service

Learn more at the SickKids.ca website.

VaxFacts from Scarborough Health Network
Online resources or speak with a medical professional
Learn more at the VaxFacts website.

Preparing for your vaccination

Watch the below video with your child to prepare them for their visit to our vaccination clinics. Read on for more information about what to expect before, during and after your vaccination. As of April 1 2022, all Southwestern Public Health COVID-19 vaccination clinics are walk-in only.

Before your vaccination
Familiarize yourself with the COVID-19 Vaccine Consent Form (click for child age 5-17 version) and follow our checklist:
  • Wear a face covering at all times
  • Wear short sleeves
  • Bring health card and ID

Here is some additional information to prepare for your appointment: 

  • Ministry of Health - What You Need to Know About Your COVID-19 Appointment
  • Ministry of Health - COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet // Youth-Version (Ages 12-18) // Child Version (Ages 5-11)
  • Ministry of Health materials in additional languages
  • Mass Immunization Clinic Transportation Information

Feeling nervous?

If you are nervous about getting a COVID-19 vaccine or are afraid of needles, the CARD (Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract) system may be able to help. Our team of professionals at the Immunization Clinics will do everything they can to help you have a comfortable experience.

During your vaccination visit

Here is what you can expect on the day of your vaccination, along with a few important things to remember:

  • Plan to spend about 30 minutes at the clinic.
  • Parking is free.
  • You will be screened for COVID-19 at the door. Please, DO NOT ATTEND if you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, are self-isolating, or have travelled outside of Canada in the last 14 days.
  • You will be asked to follow all COVID-19 public health guidelines including masking, hand hygiene, and physical distancing. If you do not have a face covering, a mask will be provided upon entry.
  • After you receive your vaccination, you will be asked to wait for a 5 to 15 minute recovery period before exiting the clinic.
  • Washrooms are available on site. 

Personal support

Please bring a support person with you when you come for your vaccination if you require assistance related to any mobility, visual, hearing or cognitive concern. Your support person will be able to attend the visit with you, and they will need to pass a COVID-19 screening questionnaire when you arrive at the vaccination clinic. 

After your vaccination
Review the Guide to Post-Vaccination or our Aftercare Fact Sheet for information about what to expect and what to after your vaccination. Here is a simplified version with graphics. 

Also refer to the Ministry of Health's After Your COVID-19 Vaccine information sheet

Be aware of common side effects

Like other vaccines or medications, the COVID-19 vaccine can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these and most are minor or not long-lasting. Examples include:

  • Pain at injection site, redness, or swelling
  • Tiredness
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain, or joint pain
  • Chills, or fever

Serious side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are rare. If you experience a serious side effect after being vaccinated, seek medical attention right away.

Continue following public health guidelines

Remember to continue following public health measures until more of our community is vaccinated against COVID-19: 

  • Consider wearing a face covering or mask
  • Keep physically distanced from others
  • Self isolate if you feel sick or have symptoms of COVID-19
  • Stay home when sick
  • Wash or sanitize your hands often

COVID-19 vaccination receipts

You may also download a digital copy of your COVID-19 vaccination receipt online. You will need to enter your health card number and your postal code.

English: Ontario.ca/VaccineReceipts 

French: Ontario.ca/RecusDeVaccin 

 Trouble downloading your receipt?
If there is an error on your vaccination receipt, or you are having trouble downloading your receipt because of a suspected error, please complete this online form and we'll correct the error in your receipt for you. 

If you have a red and white health card or no health card, call 1-833-943-3900.

Don't have a printer? Ask a friend, go to the library, pay a small fee at a retailer such as Staples, or in St. Thomas, seniors may ask at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. 

Common questions (FAQs)

Which vaccine brand will I get?

Age-Specific Guidance

  • Anyone 12-29 years of age are suggested to receive Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) as advised by the Ontario Ministry of Health, unless they request Moderna (Spikevax) through informed consent.
  • Adults aged 30 and older can safely accept either mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) interchangeably. Please continue to consider the effectiveness of both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, that they are safely interchangeable, and that there is a global need to minimize wastage for these critical products.
How do mRNA vaccines like Pfizer or Moderna work? 

mRNA vaccines use messenger RNA to teach the body’s cells how to make a protein which will cause your body to have an immune response and make antibodies. These antibodies then help fight an infection if the virus later enters the body. These vaccines do not use a live virus so they cannot give you COVID-19.

Learn more about COVID-19 mRNA vaccines from Health Canada. 

How do viral vector-based vaccines like Astra Zeneca or Janssen work?

Learn about COVID-19 viral vector-based vaccines from Health Canada. 

Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?

Yes. Only vaccines that Health Canada determine to be safe and effective are approved for use in Canada and made available in Ontario.

Learn more about vaccine safety:

  • COVID-19 Vaccine Safety (Government of Ontario)
  • Vaccine safety, concerns and possible side effects (Health Canada)
  • Vaccine Development and Approval Process (Health Canada)
  • What You Need to Know About COVID-19 Vaccine in Canada (Health Canada)
  • Reported Side Effects Following COVID-19 Vaccination in Canada (Health Canada)

Watch these videos to learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine safety in Canada:

  • Vaccine safety in Canada (Health Canada)
  • Ask Ontario Doctors – COVID-19 Vaccine Facts (Ontario Medical Association)
  • Vaccine Safety (Immunize Canada)
How were the COVID-19 vaccines approved so quickly?

COVID-19 vaccines go through the same review process that all vaccines go through to be authorized for use by Health Canada. Given the scale and urgency of the global pandemic, the Federal Government of Canada dedicated scientific, financial and human resources to complete the review process for COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible.

Learn more about Vaccine Development and Approval in Canada from Health Canada. 

Are "mixed' vaccines safe and effective?

Receiving an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) after receiving AstraZeneca for your first dose

In the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) statement of October 22, 2021, NACI recommends that an mRNA vaccine is preferred as the second dose for people who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD vaccine. This is based upon studies that suggest a better immune response when the mRNA Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is provided as the second shot. Since the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are considered interchangeable, the second dose can also be of Moderna. Evidence continues to support this mixed vaccine schedule is safe.

Receiving a different mRNA vaccine for your second or booster dose

The practice of mixing similar vaccines from different manufacturers for different doses (known as a heterologous vaccine schedule) is not new. It is used when vaccine supply or programs change, and is consistent with the guidance of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).

Similar vaccines from different manufacturers are interchangeable when they:

  • Are authorized for the same purpose
  • Are authorized for the same populations
  • Have similar schedules
  • Have similar, or produce similar, types of antigens
  • Have similar vaccine safety profiles
  • Provide similar immune response and protection

Pfizer and Moderna vaccines meet all these criteria and are essentially the same vaccine, just produced by a different manufacturer. Therefore, there is no reason to believe that mixing mRNA COVID-19 vaccines will make them unsafe or less effective. Due to this, NACI has declared the two mRNA vaccines to be interchangeable. Results from ongoing studies, including Canadian data, is also closely monitored by NACI to ensure ongoing safety and to make any updated recommendations.

Learn more

  • A Safe and Effective Second Dose (Ministry of Health)
  • Recommendations on the use of COVID-19 Vaccines (NACI)
  • mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines - What's the Difference?
Should I still get a vaccine if I have had COVID-19?

Yes. People who have had COVID-19 infection should receive the recommended number of doses they are eligible for. However, they are recommended to wait 4 to 8 weeks after having COVID-19 to get the next dose in their primary series. 

People who get COVID-19 after completing their primary series are recommended to wait 3 months after having COVID-19 to get their booster dose(s). Optimal timing can be discussed with your health care provider and depends on age, number of doses received, risk of exposure, and health status.

Is vaccination safe for women who are trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding?

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre has created a great list of resources for women considering COVID-19 vaccine who are trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding: https://sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=pregnancy-breastfeeding-fertility-covid-19-vaccine 

Other organizations have also released information that might interest you:

  • Health Canada
  • Dalhousie University
  • Canadian Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 
  • EN: Ontario.ca/covidvaccinepregnancy FR: Ontario.ca/vaccincovidgrossesse
How do I register my out of province or out of country COVID-19 vaccine?
Many people across the region received one or both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine in the United States or another country. If this applies to you, please register your vaccine here in Ontario. You can start by completing this form.

*Please note, this form is ONLY for residents of Elgin County, Oxford County and the City of St. Thomas.*
Important: After you submit your form, allow approximately 3-5 business days before accessing your receipt online at ontario.ca/vaccinereceipts

Are there transportation services available to help me get to the vaccine clinics?
Review our listing of transportation information that may help you get to our mass immunization clinics.

In Oxford County, Oxford County Community Support Services has received funding to provide free transportation to COVID-19 vaccination clinics. If you have a physical, mental, developmental or learning disability, or experience mobility, vision or hearing impairment issues and are facing barriers in getting to and from your COVID-19 vaccine appointment, you can contact 1-888-866-7518 or oxford.intake@von.ca to book your free trip. This program is generously funded by the Province of Ontario.

I still have questions! Where can I find more information? 

Vaccine Resources for Adults:

  • Ministry of Health - What You Need to Know About Your COVID-19 Appointment
  • Ministry of Health - COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet
  • Ministry of Health materials in additional languages

Vaccine Resources for Youth:

  • Ministry of Health – COVID-19 Vaccines for Youth
  • Southwestern Public Health - COVID-19 Vaccines & You information guide 
  • Ministry of Health - COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet (ages 12 and older)
  • Ministry of Health - COVID-19 Vaccine Information Sheet (ages 5-11)
  • Ministry of Health - What youth need to know about their appointment
  • Questions and Answers about COVID-19 Vaccines for Ontario Youth (from experts in children's care at McMaster Children's Hospital, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Toronto Sick Kids, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Centre, LHSC Children's Hospital and others)
Subscribe to page updates
My Health
  • Infectious Diseases
    Toggle Section Infectious Diseases Menu
    • A-Z List of Infections
    • COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus)
      Toggle Section COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) Menu
      • COVID-19 Resources for Community Settings
      • COVID-19 Resources for Health Care Providers
      • COVID-19 Resources for Schools and Child Care Centres
      • COVID-19 Resources for Workplaces and Employers
        Toggle Section COVID-19 Resources for Workplaces and Employers Menu
        • COVID-19 FAQ's for Workplaces and Employers
      • COVID-19 Vaccine
    • Influenza (Flu)
    • Preventing Infection
    • Tuberculosis
  • View Full My Health Menu
    Toggle Section
    • Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco
      Toggle Section Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco Menu
      • Alcohol
      • Cannabis
      • Opioids, Naloxone and Needle Exchange
        Toggle Section Opioids, Naloxone and Needle Exchange Menu
        • Naloxone
        • Opioid Monitoring
        • Needle Exchange Program
      • Smoking and Vaping
        Toggle Section Smoking and Vaping Menu
        • Health Effects of Tobacco and Smoking
        • Quit Smoking Workshops
        • Vaping
    • Animal Bites and Rabies
      Toggle Section Animal Bites and Rabies Menu
      • Rabies
    • Body Art and Personal Care
    • Child and Family Health
      Toggle Section Child and Family Health Menu
      • Breastfeeding
      • Child Safety
      • Healthy Babies Healthy Children
      • Parenting
        Toggle Section Parenting Menu
        • Babies 0-12 months
        • Toddlers 1-3 years
        • Preschoolers 3-5 years
      • Postpartum Mood Disorders
      • Preconception and Pregnancy
      • Pregnancy and Baby Supports
    • Dental Health
      Toggle Section Dental Health Menu
      • Children and Youth 0-17
      • Seniors 65+
    • Immunization and Vaccines
      Toggle Section Immunization and Vaccines Menu
      • Immunization at Every Age
      • Immunization Exemptions
      • Immunization Records and Reporting
      • Immunizations in Schools
        Toggle Section Immunizations in Schools Menu
        • Grade 7 Immunization Program
      • Immunization Clinics
      • Influenza (Flu) Clinics
    • Food and Eating
      Toggle Section Food and Eating Menu
      • Food and Eating for Every Life Stage
      • Local Food Programs and Services
      • Reducing Weight Bias
    • Personal Safety and Injury Prevention
      Toggle Section Personal Safety and Injury Prevention Menu
      • Bike Safety
      • Child Safety
      • Concussions
      • Sun Safety
    • Mental Health
    • Physical Activity
      Toggle Section Physical Activity Menu
      • Free and Low-Cost Activities
      • Physical Activity in Schools
      • Physical Activity Guidelines
      • Physical Literacy
      • Walking, Biking, Hiking
    • Sexual Health
      Toggle Section Sexual Health Menu
      • Birth Control
      • Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test)
      • Pregnancy Testing and Options
      • Safer Sex
      • Sexual Assault and Violence
      • Sexual Health Clinics
      • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
    • Vector-Borne Diseases
      Toggle Section Vector-Borne Diseases Menu
      • Ticks and Lyme Disease
      • West Nile Virus

Contact Us

Work with Us

Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) values our people! We pride ourselves on our positive and flexible work environment.

Learn More

Southwestern Public Health footer logo

Southwestern Public Health strives to ensure the comfort and safety of staff and visitors by encouraging a scent free environment.

  • Classes, Clinics and Services
  • My Health
  • Community Health
  • Partners & Professionals
  • Reports & Statistics
  • About Us

Links:

  • Privacy and Records Access
  • Accessibility
  • Careers
  • Contact Us
  • Disclaimer and Terms of Use
  • Location and Hours
  • Sitemap
  • Website Feedback
Scroll to top of page

© 2020 Southwestern Public Health

Designed by eSolutionsGroup
Close Old Browser Notification
Browser Compatibility Notification
It appears you are trying to access this site using an outdated browser. As a result, parts of the site may not function properly for you. We recommend updating your browser to its most recent version at your earliest convenience.