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COVID-19 Vaccines

Home Health and Wellness COVID-19 UpdateCOVID-19 Vaccines

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While COVID-19 vaccines will be offered to everyone who wants one by the end of 2021, Ontario’s Vaccination Plan has prioritized the initial doses for those who need it most. If you are unsure whether or not you should receive the vaccine, please discuss your concerns with your health care provider before booking an appointment.

Book a vaccine appointment

Mass immunization clinics in Durham Region

Learn about COVID-19 vaccines and find answers to your FAQs

About the booking process

Pharmacy program and health care providers

Debunking the myths about COVID-19 vaccines

Who is eligible to book a vaccine?

Homebound mobile immunization for eligible clients

COVID-19 vaccine resources in other languages

Hot spot and workplace clinics

Extension of second dose for COVID-19 vaccines

Who is eligible to book a vaccine?

We are currently in Phase 2 of the provincial plan. Vaccination of Phase 2 populations is based on age and risk factors as outlined in provincial guidance. For more information please see the Ministry of Health Guidance for Prioritization of Phase 2 Populations for COVID-19 Vaccination.

We will notify the community as other priority groups are eligible for vaccine.

We are currently focusing on these priority groups.

Please check your eligibility group to see if you must provide proof at your appointment.

Ages 18+ who live in the hot spot postal code areas L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z

Proof of eligibility requirements: Identification (ID) with date of birth AND ID with postal code or any document with name and postal code

All residents must be at least 18-years old on the day of their vaccination appointment
This priority group can book at a hot spot pop-up clinics or mass immunization clinics in Ajax, Pickering and Whitby
See the hot spot pop-up clinic schedule

Age - 50+

Proof of eligibility requirements: ID with date of birth

Individuals 50 years of age and older
Includes individuals who will be turning 50 in 2021

Essential workers who cannot work from home (Group 1 and Group 2)

Proof of eligibility requirements: Staff ID, pay stub which includes your name or letter from your employer

Group 1:

Elementary/secondary school workers who typically work in-person (educators, custodial, school bus drivers, administrative staff)
Workers responding to critical events (including police, fire, special constables, emergency management and critical infrastructure restoration workers)
Children's aid society workers
Enforcement, inspection, and compliance roles (including by-law enforcement, building inspectors, food inspectors, animal welfare inspectors, border inspections officers, labour inspectors/WSIB field workers)
Foster care agency workers (including customary care providers)
Food manufacturing and distribution workers
Agriculture and farm workers
Funeral, crematorium, and cemetery workers

Group 2:

Essential and critical retail workers (including grocery, foodbank and non-clinical pharmacy workers, ServiceOntario workers, Service Canada and Passport Canada workers, wholesalers and general goods, restaurant workers, LCBO)
Workers in manufacturing industries directly involved in supporting the COVID-19 response, construction including infrastructure, and other essential businesses and services where facilities are at heightened risk for COVID-19 outbreaks and spread
Social workers and other social services staff providing in-person client services (including youth justice workers, OW and ODSP case workers)
Courts and justice system workers (including probation and parole workers)
Transportation, warehousing and distribution workers (including public transit workers, truck drivers supporting essential services, marine and rail cargo and maintenance, highway maintenance)
Electricity (including workers employed in system operations, generation, transmission, distribution and storage)
Communications infrastructure workers (including cellular, satellite, landline, internet, public safety radio)
Water and wastewater management workers
Financial services workers (bank branch staff)
Veterinarians and veterinary teams
Waste management workers
Oil and petroleum workers (including those working in petroleum refineries, those involved in the storage, transmission and distribution of crude oil and petroleum products and those needed for the retail sale of fuel)
Natural gas and propane gas workers (including those working in the compression, storage, transmission and distribution of natural gas and propane)
Mine workers (including those needed to ensure the continued operation of active mines)
Uranium processing workers (those working in the refining and conversion of uranium and fabrication of fuel for nuclear power plants)

Special education staff

Proof of eligibility requirements: Letter from the school board confirming eligibility

Staff who provide direct in-person support to students with complex special needs in Durham Region. Eligible staff support students who meet one or more of the following criteria:

Require support with activities of daily living, including health and safety measures
Are unable to wear masks for medical reasons
Have complex medical needs and cannot be accommodated through remote learning

Child care worker ages - licensed setting

Proof of eligibility requirements: eligible staff must provide a letter from their employer confirming they meet eligibility requirements

The letter must include:

A statement that the individual is eligible
Individual's name
Individual's address
Child Care License Number of the main site where the individual works
The letter should be on the organization’s letterhead if possible

High-Risk congregate living settings (residents, frontline staff, and certain essential caregivers*)

Proof of eligibility requirements: Staff – ID badge, residents and caregivers – verbally attest they live or provide care in one of the below congregate settings

Supportive housing
Developmental services/intervenor including supported independent living (SIL)
Emergency homeless shelters and homeless populations not in shelters
Mental health and addictions congregate living (e.g., supportive housing, hospital psychiatric patients)
Homes for special care
Employer-provided living accommodations for temporary foreign agricultural workers (e.g., on-farm temporary foreign workers and other staff working on these farms; does NOT include agriculture/farm employers that do not employ temporary foreign workers)
Adult correctional facilities
Violence against women (VAW) shelters and anti-human trafficking (AHT) residences
Children residential facilities (includes foster parents)
Youth justice facilities
Indigenous healing and wellness
Bail beds and Indigenous bail beds
Provincial and demonstration schools (provide programming for students who are deaf, blind/low vision, deafblind or have severe learning disabilities)

See definitions

Health conditions (includes 1 essential caregiver for Highest Risk** and High-Risk*** individuals)

Proof of eligibility requirements: Verbally attest to having one of the below health conditions

Highest-Risk** (refer to dosing intervals; some conditions are eligible for 21 and 28 day dosing)

Organ transplant recipients and individuals awaiting organ transplant
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Neurological diseases in which respiratory function may be compromised (e.g., motor neuron disease, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis)
Blood cancer diagnosed less than 1 year
Kidney disease with eGFR less than 30
Pregnant individuals
- Individuals who are pregnant will need to attest that they have spoken to their health care provider to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination in pregnancy before being vaccinated
- One essential caregiver may be vaccinated as long as they provide care including activities of daily living in line with other essential caregivers

High-Risk***

Obesity (BMI greater than 40)
Other treatments causing immunosuppression (e.g., chemotherapy, immunity weakening medications)
Intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g. Down Syndrome)

See definitions

Chronic home care recipients

Proof of eligibility requirements: Verbally attest to receiving chronic home care services

Faith leaders

Proof of eligibility requirements: Verbally attest to being a faith leader providing the following services:

End of life care
Care of deceased, funerals, bathing, or ceremonies with direct contact with deceased persons
Home visits to unwell persons
Pastoral care in hospitals/LTCHs/RHs or other vulnerable settings

Indigenous adults and non-Indigenous adult household members

Proof of eligibility requirements: Status Card, Métis Card, N Number

Note: We are in the process of rescheduling second-dose appointments for Indigenous adults who have already received their first dose.

Health care workers (HCW)**** eligibility depends on setting (health care vs non-health care)

Proof of eligibility requirements: Workplace ID badge

See definitions

Definitions

Congregate setting

Residential facilities where a high-risk population live or stay overnight and use shared spaces (e.g., common sleeping areas, shared bathrooms or kitchens, communal dining spaces).

*Essential caregivers for congregate settings

Includes essential caregivers for developmental services, mental health and addictions congregate settings, homes for special care, children's residential facilities and Indigenous healing and wellness facilities.

**Essential caregivers for Highest-Risk

Can have one essential caregiver – no specific requirements for client or caregiver

***Essential caregivers for High-Risk

One primary essential caregiver is included for individuals in the High-Risk health conditions group if they require regular and sustained assistance with personal care and/or activities of daily living.

****Health care worker/staff and frontline workers for congregate, residential or community settings

Workers may be volunteers, learners, and third-party workers who regularly work in the setting (e.g., agency workers, other third-party workers)
Workers who are actively in their roles at the time of planned or anticipated vaccination
Workers that have been redeployed should be assessed based on their place of work or role at the time of the planned or anticipated vaccination
Frontline workers are those that hold public facing roles or must work in-person with other workers in their workplace in order to deliver essential goods or services and where protective measures such as maintaining physical distancing is not always possible

Health care setting (e.g., doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, chiropractic setting)

All staff are eligible – all health care workers and other staff or volunteers, including those who do NOT provide direct patient care are eligible (e.g., custodial, security, reception staff).

Audiology clinics
Chiropractic/massage/kinesiology clinics
Chronic pain clinics
Community health clinics – needle exchange, aboriginal health care, home and community care workers
Dentistry/oral surgeon clinics
Hospital workers
Independent health specialties
Lab/diagnostic services
LTC and retirement home staff and essential caregivers
Medical first responder in the community (including police, fire, coast guard)
Mental health, addictions
Midwifery practice
Naturopath and holistic care clinics
Nutritionists
Optometrists, optician clinics
Pharmacies
Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, non-acute rehab/therapy
Podiatrist clinics
Primary health care provider clinics/NP lead clinic/medical specialists clinics
Psychology, psychiatry, psychotherapy clinics
Public health
Sexual health clinics
Walk-in clinic/campus health centres

Non-health care setting (e.g., group home, shelter, assisted living, correctional facility)

Direct care staff only. Only workers providing a health service or direct patient care are eligible (e.g., a peer worker at a shelter, worker performing personal support services in an assisted living facility or youth worker in a group home). Individuals must provide in-person care and cannot work from home. Office staff are NOT currently eligible.

Adult day programs
Congregate living staff (e.g., shelters, correctional settings, residential facilities, assisted living)
Developmental services
Nurse providing patient care in a school/daycare
Social work/social services
Assisted living facility (e.g. personal support worker)

Who is currently NOT eligible for the vaccine?

Phase 2 groups not listed above:

People with "At-Risk Health Conditions" not listed above and some primary caregivers.
Immune deficiencies/autoimmune disorders, stroke/cerebrovascular disease, dementia, diabetes, liver disease, all other cancers, respiratory diseases, spleen problems (e.g., asplenia), heart disease, hypertension with end organ damage, diagnosis of mental disorder, substance use disorders, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, immunocompromising health conditions, other disabilities requiring direct support care in the community.

Phase 3:

General public - Adults 49 years of age and younger.
Exceptions would include adults 40 years of age and older who are accessing the AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD vaccine at participating pharmacies, and adults 18 years of age and older who live in priority neighbourhoods.

Information about how these groups can access their vaccine will be posted when available.

Learn more about booking an appointment

If you are not seeing appointments in the booking system, this means that there are no appointments currently available. Appointments are based on vaccine availability. Once vaccines spots have been fully booked, clinic appointments are no longer available. As additional vaccine is confirmed, more spots will be added.

For clients who are deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing and would like to request an interpreter for a vaccination appointment at a Durham Region COVID-19 immunization clinic, please call 1-888-444-5113 (using Bell Relay as needed) to book an appointment and request the presence of an interpreter at your appointment.

Book a vaccine appointment

For residents who are unable to book online, appointments are available by calling 1-888-444-5113.

Booking application questions, rebooking and cancelling your appointments

Please review the eligibility criteria carefully before booking an appointment. Please be sure to bring any proof required to your appointment. You can check what proof is required in the eligibility section.

Booking questions:

What web browser should I use when booking an appointment?
You should use Google Chrome to access the online booking service.
When booking my appointment, how do I enter my health card number?
Please only enter the numbers, no dashes when entering your health card information.
When booking my appointment, how do I enter my phone number?
Please only enter the numbers, no dashes when entering your phone number. If you do not have a phone number, you can enter all 0s.
Can multiple people use the same email or phone number?
Yes. Multiple people can use the same email or phone number.
What should I do if I haven’t received my confirmation of appointment email?
Please check your junk mail as well as your inbox.

How do I rebook my first appointment?

Cancel the appointment using the "cancel link" in your confirmation email or phone the call centre at 1-888-444-5113.
Book another appointment online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by phoning the call centre at 1-888-444-5113.

What should I do if I haven’t received my second appointment email?

Please give up to two weeks after your first dose of the vaccine to receive your second appointment email. Please check your junk mail as well as your inbox.

How can I rebook my second appointment?

Please note, you cannot book a second dose online at this time. Given that second dose appointments have a set interval post first dose, rescheduling of appointments is limited. Rescheduling of your second dose date depends on the ability to create additional appointments over those already booked which is contingent on vaccine availability at that time. If you must reschedule your second dose, please call 1-888-444-5113 no earlier than 10 days prior to scheduled date.

If I am new to the region or province and have had my first dose of the vaccine, how do I book the second dose?

If you have already had your first dose and you need a second dose, please call the call centre at 1-888-444-5113 no earlier than 10 days prior to scheduled date.

How do I cancel my appointment?

You can cancel your appointment by using the "cancel link" in your confirmation email or by phoning the call centre at 1-888-444-5113.

Hot spot pop-up and mobile clinics

Durham Region residents living in hot spot communities (L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at a mass immunization, mobile, or pop-up clinics. Select your postal code below to find out more. Please read eligibility criteria carefully as age and postal code eligibility are not the same at all clinics.

Hot spot mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Required proof of eligibility for ALL clinics: At appointment, provide documentation for proof of age and hot spot address.

Download a schedule of fixed and rotational pop-up clinics

Residents living in L1S

Mass immunization clinics - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax, Pickering or Whitby mass immunization clinics in Durham Region
When: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
How to book: Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Fixed* pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax L1S 4S4 | Map this location
When: See calendar
How to book: Online at covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

Rotational** pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment who live in L1S only
Where: To be determined
When: May 27, 28 and 29, 2021
How to book: Booking will open May 24 at 9 p.m.
Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Mobile clinics*** - No appointment (walk-in only)

Mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Residents living in L1T

Mass immunization clinics - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax, Pickering or Whitby mass immunization clinics in Durham Region
When: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
How to book: Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Fixed* pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax L1S 4S4 | Map this location
When: See calendar
How to book: Online at covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

Rotational** pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1T only
Where: McLean Community Centre, 95 Magill Drive, Ajax, ON L1T 4M5 | Map this location
When: May 20, 21 and 22, 2021
How to book: Booking will open May 10 at 9 p.m.
Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Mobile clinics*** - No appointment (walk-in only)

Mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Residents living in L1V

Mass immunization clinics - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who:Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where:Ajax, Pickering or Whitby mass immunization clinics in Durham Region
When: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
How to book: Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Fixed* pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax L1S 4S4 | Map this location
When: See calendar
How to book: Online at covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

Rotational** pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1V only
Where: Dunbarton High School, 655 Sheppard Avenue, Pickering ON L1V 1G2 | Map this location
When: May 13, 14, and 15, 2021
How to book: Booking opens May 3 at 9 p.m.
Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Mobile clinics*** - No appointment (walk-in only)

Mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Residents living in L1X

Mass immunization clinics - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax, Pickering or Whitby mass immunization clinics in Durham Region
When: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
How to book: Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Fixed* pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax L1S 4S4 | Map this location
When: See calendar
How to book: Online at covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

Rotational** pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1X only
Where: Pineridge Secondary School, 2155 Liverpool Road, Pickering, ON L1X 1V4 | Map this location
When: April 29, 30 and May 1, 2021
How to book: Booking opens April 26 at 9 p.m.
Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Mobile clinics*** - No appointment (walk-in only)

Mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Residents living in L1Z

Mass immunization clinics - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax, Pickering or Whitby mass immunization clinics in Durham Region
When: Open 7 days a week from 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
How to book: Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Fixed* pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and who live in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X and L1Z
Where: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax L1S 4S4 | Map this location
When: See calendar
How to book: Online at covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

Rotational** pop-up clinic - Adults 18+ and appointment only

Who: Adults 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment who live in L1Z only
Where: St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School, 15 Fishlock St., Ajax, ON L1Z 1H1 | Map this location
When: May 6, 7, and 8, 2021
How to book: Booking opens May 3 at 9 p.m.
Online at durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113

Mobile clinics*** - No appointment (walk-in only)

Mobile clinics will be available at least weekly in hot spot postal codes. Location and dates will be posted as soon as possible. These will be walk-in appointments with no booking required.

Definitions

*Fixed pop-up clinic at the Ajax Community Centre

same location each week
open to individuals 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and living in L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X, L1Z
appointment required through covidvaccine.lh.ca or by calling 905-721-4828

**Rotational pop-up clinic

new location each week, rotating through postal codes L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X, L1Z
weekly clinic with appointments Thursday to Saturday
open to individuals 18 years of age and older on the day of their vaccination appointment and living in the hot spot area where clinic is held
appointment required through durham.ca/vaccineappointment or by calling 1-888-444-5113

***Mobile clinic

at least one new location each week
one clinic per week rotating through postal codes L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X, L1Z
open to individuals 18 years of age and older on the day of the mobile clinic and living in the postal code where the mobile clinic is located
no appointment required (walk-in only)

Workplace vaccination clinics

Organizations located in a hot spot community (L1S, L1T, L1V, L1X, L1Z) that are interested in hosting a workplace vaccination clinic can email covid19vaccinetaskforce@ontario.ca. The Secretariat will follow up and determine eligibility for a workplace vaccine clinic. If a workplace meets eligibility criteria, a representative from the Durham Region Health Department will contact the approved organization to discuss next steps.

Mass clinics

Our mass immunization clinics will be offering either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine depending on the day and the site. You will not be given a choice on what vaccine you are offered. Both mRNA vaccines are safe and effective.

What you need to know before your COVID-19 vaccine appointment

Ensuring the mass immunization clinics are accessible for seniors

We want people coming to the clinics to know that they are accessible and following all public health measures to help ensure people feel comfortable and safe. These measures include:

The online booking system encourages clients to bring a support person with them to clinic, if needed, as well as any mobility devices.
A call centre to book appointments, as an alternative to booking through the online portal is available. The call centre booking line phone number is 1-888-444-5113.
If needed, staffing "ambassadors" are available to escort seniors through the clinics if seniors do not have an assistive device, or are not accompanied by a support person.
Chairs will be available and offered to seniors at the clinic, and clinical and administrative float staff will be monitoring lines and supporting seniors, as needed.
Assistive devices will be available at clinics and offered to seniors, if needed.
The Region has partnered with community agencies to provide free or low-cost transportation for seniors to attend vaccination clinics if transportation costs are a barrier.
See transportation options for Durham Region COVID-19 vaccination clinics.

Transportation options for Durham Region COVID-19 vaccination clinics

The following community agencies can provide free or low-cost transportation to attend vaccination clinics, if transportation is a barrier.

If you have questions or need assistance coordinating transportation, please contact the agencies listed below directly.

If you are a community-based organization who can offer transportation to vaccination appointments, please contact us to be added to this list.

Community Care Durham

Community Care Durham’s staff and volunteer drivers offer transportation to seniors throughout Durham Region. Drivers are screened each day, wear personal protective equipment, and only transport passengers from one household at a time. Masks are mandatory for passengers. Accessible vans and regular vehicles are available. Rides to the clinics can be booked seven days a week, including evenings, depending on availability.

Cost: Free
Contact: 1-888-255-6680 or your local Community Care Durham office.

Durham Region Transit

Learn about free, convenient Durham Region Transit options for Durham residents who are travelling to COVID-19 vaccine clinics.

Scheduled Service is available on routes across the Region. Refer to durhamregiontransit.com for details, or contact a customer service representative at 1-866-247-0055 for assistance to plan your trip.

On Demand is a shared ride service. Customers may book through the On Demand app, or by calling call an On Demand booking agent at 1-866-247-0055.

Specialized Services provides public transit service for eligible persons with disabilities who are unable to use conventional transit services for all or part of their ride. Customers with a disability can travel with a support person if they are unable to use DRT services independently. A support person does not pay a fare. Registration is required.

Visit durhamregiontransit.com for full details, or contact a customer service representative at 1-866-247-0055.

Cost: Age 65 and older costs $2.75 cash or $2.15 with PRESTO. Age 20 to 64 costs $4 cash or $3.25 with PRESTO.
Contact: 1-866-247-0055, or download the On Demand app.

Oshawa Senior Community Centres 55+ (OSCC)

The OSCC will transport Oshawa residents to clinics located in Oshawa. They have four accessible walk-on vehicles and four drivers available to transport seniors to and from Oshawa vaccine clinics, on Monday through Friday.

Cost: Free
Contact: 905-576-6712 ext. 2878

Seniors on Wheels

Seniors on Wheels offers transportation in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa.

Cost: Free
Contact: info@seniorsonwheels.ca, 905-409-7394 Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Durham Region COVID-19 vaccination clinic locations

Residents who meet current eligibility requirements are welcome to book an appointment at any Durham Region clinic of their choice as follows:

Audley Recreation Centre
1955 Audley Road North, Ajax L1Z 0L2 | Map this location
Uxbridge Arena*
291 Brock Street West, Uxbridge L9P 1G1 | Map this location
Scugog Arena*
1655 Reach Street, Port Perry L9L 1P2 | Map this location
Rick MacLeish Memorial Community Centre Arena*
91 Elliot Street, Cannington L0E 1E0 | Map this location
The Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex
2440 Durham Regional Hwy. 2, Bowmanville L1C 3K2 | Map this location
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena
(entrance at back of building) - formerly known as Pickering Recreation Complex
1867 Valley Farm Road, Pickering L1V 6K7 | Map this location
Ontario Tech Campus Ice Centre
2200 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON L1H 7K4 | Map this location
McKinney Centre
222 McKinney Drive, Whitby L1R 3M3 | Map this location

*These clinics will operate on a rotating basis; every week there will be one clinic scheduled for Brock and two clinics each scheduled for Uxbridge and Scugog.

Frequently asked questions about vaccination clinics

How are we supporting our senior population? Will they have access to mobile clinics?

Seniors who are able to attend a mass vaccination clinic are encouraged to do so. This will help to provide seniors with the quickest access to the vaccine. If you need assistance with transportation, see transportation options for Durham Region COVID-19 vaccination clinics.

The Durham College clinic location in Oshawa offers a drive thru option for clients who are able to leave their home, but unable to receive the vaccine in a mass immunization clinic environment.

As of April 6, the Durham Region Health Department has started home vaccine visits for eligible clients.

Will seniors have to wait in line outside?

Appointment times are assigned; do not arrive more than 10 minutes before your appointment. Hopefully this will mean no line ups and no one waiting outside.

Which vaccine will be administered at these clinics?

Durham Region clinics will either have Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Both are mRNA vaccines, safe and 94-95 per cent effective.

Will residents have a choice in vaccines?

No. Residents will be provided vaccine based on Health Department supply.

What information will I need to book an appointment online?

Information clients will need to book an appointment online include:

Telephone number (home or cell phone)
Home address including postal code
Email address (can be family support person)
Health Card Number

How and where will the public receive information about vaccine clinics?

The Health Department has developed a vaccine communications strategy. This is a very fluid plan that will allow for a flexible approach to ensure communications can be targeted based on current situations/issues.

The Health Department issues news releases as new information is available.
Current activities include ads in all local newspapers (both online and print publications).
Region’s website, www.durham.ca has been updated with current vaccine messaging; dedicated COVID-19 web pages with vaccine information include www.durham.ca/novelcoronavirus and www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.
Social media will be used to deliver messaging to the community, and we will engage with our community partners to help with delivering messaging to area residents.

When residents book an appointment, will they book for their first and second vaccination?

Clients only book an appointment for their first dose. When they complete their first dose at a clinic, a second dose booking is sent to them by email upon check-out from the clinic.

Can a resident go anywhere in Durham to get their vaccination or is their local municipality the preferred location?

People who live in Durham Region can register for an appointment at any Durham Region clinic.

Do we have any literature regarding vaccine hesitancy that we can share?

A number of FAQs, as well as a list of myths versus facts, are available on this page.

Pharmacy program and health care providers

Health care providers

Designated health care providers in the community are offering AstraZeneca vaccine by appointment to individuals 40 years of age and older.

Health care providers currently included in the program

Please contact the health care provider directly to book a vaccine appointment.

Clarington Family Health Organization | NewcastleVaccineClinic@outlook.com | 905-623-6458
Carea Community Health Centre | 1-888-969-6746
North Durham Family Health Team
Oshawa Clinic Group
Uxbridge Health Centre | 905-852-1009

Pharmacies

Pharmacies across Durham Region are included in the province’s COVID-19 vaccine pharmacy program. Most pharmacies book appointments ahead of time and some allow walk-ins. Check with the pharmacy before you go.

AstraZeneca

Pharmacies are providing AstraZeneca to eligible people 40 or older.
The AstraZeneca vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 infection.

See pharmacy locations included in this program

Moderna

Select pharmacy locations in the Durham Region hot spot areas are administering the Moderna vaccine to individuals 18 and over.

View all locations offering the Moderna vaccine

Homebound mobile immunization for eligible clients

Individuals 18+ unable to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at a mass immunization clinic may be eligible to receive the vaccine through the Health Department’s mobile clinic team. Eligible individuals have difficulty accessing office-based health care services due to medical, physical, cognitive or psychosocial needs or conditions. Please review the following criteria to see if you, or someone you know, can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at home.

Individuals must:

belong to a current priority group that is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine
be unable to leave home due to medical, physical, cognitive or psychosocial needs/conditions (lack of transportation is not considered a barrier; see available transportation services)
consent to receiving the vaccine in their home
be 18 years of age and older
not have received a first or second dose of the vaccine
have no contraindications to the COVID-19 vaccine
have been advised by their health care provider (e.g. family doctor, specialist, nurse practitioner) to receive the vaccine after discussing risks and benefits of vaccination if they have one or more of the following health issues:
- immune system concern
- autoimmune condition
- bleeding disorder

Make a referral for the COVID-19 vaccine to be given at home

If you or someone you know meets the above criteria and you would like to make a referral for the COVID-19 vaccine to be given at home, please email RDPShomeboundCOVIDVaccine@durham.ca.

Please include the following information in the email: first and last name of the individual, address including postal code, phone number, and email address if it is different than the email address being sent.

Extension of second dose for COVID-19 vaccines

The province has extended the time between the first and second dose for all COVID-19 vaccines currently available in Canada except for certain conditions listed here. As of March 10, 2021, all second doses have been moved to 16 weeks (or 112 days) to ensure more people can receive the first vaccine due to still limited supply. This decision was made by the Chief Medical Officer of Health based on recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).

One dose of the AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna vaccine provides good protection against COVID-19 infection, severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
Increasing the time between your first and second dose allows your body to produce a stronger and longer immune response.
Vaccinating more people with one dose will protect not only the people getting the vaccine, but also the people around them.

The Ministry of Health confirmed Indigenous adults and their non-Indigenous household members are now eligible to receive the second vaccine dose based on information from the vaccine manufacturer. For those who identified as Indigenous and who have already received their first dose, we are in the process of rebooking these individuals for a closer second-dose appointment. New second-dose appointments will be rebooked at the earliest availability based on vaccine supply. These appointments will be communicated through text and/or email.

If you have not received an email or text with a new second-dose appointment by May 20, 2021, please call 1-888-444-5113 or call 905-721-4828 if you received your first dose at the Oshawa (Ontario Tech Campus Ice) vaccination clinic.

We strongly encourage you to keep your new second-dose appointment. If the new appointment must absolutely be rescheduled, refer to rebooking instructions included in the appointment confirmation. Rescheduling your appointment may result in an increased wait time.

About the COVID-19 vaccines

See Facts about... COVID-19 vaccines

General COVID-19 vaccine information

Why get vaccinated?

While many people with COVID-19 have only mild illness, others may get a severe illness or they may even die. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you, even if you are not at increased risk of severe complications. COVID-19 vaccination helps protect you by creating an immune response without having to experience the illness of COVID-19.

What vaccines are approved?

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine was authorized for use in Canada on December 9, 2020.
Moderna COVID-19 vaccine was authorized for use in Canada on December 23, 2020.
AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine was authorized for use in Canada on February 26, 2021.
Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine was authorized for use in Canada on March 5, 2021.

These vaccines will be an important tool to help stop the spread of the virus.

How do the mRNA vaccines work?

There are two messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines approved for use in Canada, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
->	->	->	->
The vaccine tells the cells in our body to make "spike proteins" that are found on the COVID-19 virus.	These "spike proteins", although harmless to us, will make our body create antibodies.	These new antibodies will break down the "spike proteins" and get rid of them from your body.	Your new antibodies will protect you from being sick if you are exposed to the COVID-19 virus.

You will need two doses, given by an injection in the shoulder (deltoid) muscle.
mRNA vaccines do not contain whole or live SARS-CoV-2 and therefore cannot cause a COVID-19 infection.
mRNA vaccines have been studied for over two decades and are a new vaccine platform, but not a new technology.
mRNA vaccines do not affect or interact with DNA and mRNA is destroyed by cells once the body has finished using its instructions.

mRNA vaccines differ from live attenuated vaccines and inactivated vaccines. Live attenuated vaccines contain a living virus or bacteria which has been weakened so it cannot cause serious harm. Inactivated vaccines are made by inactivating or killing the bacteria or virus during the manufacturing process.

How do the viral vector-based vaccines work?

Viral vector-based vaccines use a harmless virus (in this case, adenovirus) as a delivery system. The vector virus is not the virus that causes COVID-19, the adenoviruses are viruses that cause the common cold. Once injected into the body, the virus contained within the vaccine produced the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The spike protein doesn’t make you sick, it causes the body to mount a strong immune response against the spike protein by creating antibodies and eliminate it from the body.

Are there any side effects?

Some people may experience side effects from the vaccine, but these will likely be moderate and resolve after a few days. Some of the symptoms are part of the body's response to developing immunity.

Side effects reported in clinical trials for this vaccine include:

Very Common ≥10%
(more than 1 in 10 doses)

Common 1%-10%
(1 in 100 to 1 in 10 doses)

Uncommon 1%
(1 in 100 doses)

Very Rare

pain, tenderness, itchiness or swelling at the injection site
headache
feeling tired or unwell
muscle or joint pain
fever or chills
nausea
swelling or tenderness under the armpit (only in Moderna vaccine)

redness and swelling at the injection site
vomiting or diarrhea

enlarged lymph nodes

Janssen only:

rash
muscle weakness
arm or leg pain
feeling weak or generally unwell

AstraZeneca only:

sleepiness or feeling dizzy
decreased appetite
excessive sweating, itchy skin or rash

allergic reaction such as hives
serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis

In rare cases, serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur. Allergic reactions can be treated and are usually temporary.

Who should get the vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for all individuals in the authorized age groups without contraindications.

for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine - 16 years of age and older.
for Moderna, AstraZeneca and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine - 18 years of age and older.

The COVID-19 vaccine is in limited supply at this time.

Priority groups have been identified and people will be able to get the vaccine in a phased approach based on the Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan.
The mRNA vaccines will be prioritized and distributed according to Ontario's Distribution Plan.
The viral vector-based vaccines will be prioritized for different populations than noted in Ontario’s Distribution Plan.
Individuals most at risk of getting the virus and/or experiencing negative health outcomes will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine first.

Who should not get the vaccine?

Individuals with a severe allergy (anaphylaxis) to any previous COVID-19 vaccine(s) or any part of its packaging.
- Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is in both vaccines. It can also be found in laxatives, makeup, skin care products, personal lubricants, toothpastes, and some contact lenses. It is also in cough syrup and in some food and drinks. If you are unsure of the ingredients you are allergic to, talk to a health care provider.
- Polysorbate 80 is found in both viral vector-based vaccines (AstraZeneca and Janssen). Polysorbate 80 can also be found in medical preparations (vitamin oils, tablets, and anticancer agents), cosmetics.
Individuals who are not in the authorized age group should not be offered the vaccine.
Individuals who are ill with COVID-19 symptoms should wait until they are feeling better.
Individuals who are unwell for reasons other than COVID-19 should wait until they are feeling better.
Individuals who received another vaccine (not a COVID-19 vaccine) in the past 14 days.
Individuals who received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

At this time, the following individuals should not be routinely immunized due to limited evidence. Discuss the vaccine with your health care provider to determine if the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the potential risks.

Individuals who are immunosuppressed due to disease or treatment.
Individuals with an autoimmune condition.
Individuals who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Is the vaccine effective against the new reported variants of COVID-19?

There are concerns that some identified mutations can affect antibody response to the virus, rendering the current vaccine less effective. However, it is unlikely that the vaccine will be entirely ineffective against these variants. Pfizer and Moderna are over 94 per cent effective in preventing symptomatic infections.

Do the COVID-19 vaccines contain mercury, formaldehyde, aluminum or fetal cells?

No. The COVID-19 vaccines do not contain mercury, formaldehyde, aluminum or fetal cells.

Are the COVID-19 vaccines halal?

Yes, the two mRNA vaccines Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are halal, they do not contain gelatin or pork products.

Are the mRNA vaccines vegan?

Yes, the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are vegan. The lipids and cholesterol are plant-based or synthetic. There are no:

pork-derived materials, blood fractions or fetal cell products.

What percentage of the population needs to get vaccinated to have "community immunity"?

Community immunity is the indirect protection from an infectious disease that happens when a population is immune either through vaccination or immunity developed through previous infection. It is much safer to get herd immunity through vaccination than infecting the population.

The percentage of people who need to be immune in order to achieve community immunity varies with each disease. At this time, it is unknown how much of the population must be vaccinated against COVID-19 to begin inducing community immunity. This is an important area of research and will likely vary according to the community, the vaccine, the populations prioritized for vaccination, and other factors.

Is there a difference between natural immunity, from getting COVID-19, and the immunity from getting vaccinated?

We do not have enough data to understand how long immunity can last after a COVID infection, or with a vaccine. In other types of infections, we’ve seen that sometimes natural immunity doesn’t last as long as vaccine-induced immunity.

Given the scale and urgency of the pandemic, we continue to recommend that people who had the virus get the vaccine, in case immunity from natural infection isn’t as long-lasting and there is potential we can extend that immunity by vaccinating.

After I get the vaccine, do I still need to follow public health guidelines?

Until we have more information about the impacts of the vaccine, individuals should continue to practice recommended public health measures to prevent COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status.

Wear a face covering.
Practice physical distancing.
Avoid social gatherings with those outside of your immediate household.
Limit non-essential trips outside your home.
Wash your hands often with warm water and soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded places.
Stay home when you are sick.

Medical and safety information

Is the vaccine safe?

Health Canada’s independent drug authorization process is known worldwide for its high standards and demanding reviews. Decisions to authorize vaccines for use in Canada are based only on scientific and medical evidence demonstrating that vaccines are safe and effective. These stringent requirements have not changed for the approval of COVID-19 vaccines in Canada.

Check out this video about vaccine safety in Canada.

You may be interested in Do they check vaccine safety after the vaccine has been approved? and How was Health Canada able to approve the COVID-19 vaccine so quickly?

Is the vaccine checked for safety after it has been approved?

Yes, in Canada there is ongoing monitoring and reporting of every vaccine given. If a reaction occurs after getting a vaccine that is not one of the normal side effects, an adverse event following immunization (AEFI) form is completed by your health care provider. The AEFI form will detail what vaccine was received, when it was received, the reaction that occurred and how long it took the reaction to appear after the vaccine was given.

Check out the COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Canada website to see the AEFI reports to date.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine cause a COVID-19 infection?

No. The COVID-19 vaccines do not use a live virus, so getting the infection from the vaccine is impossible. The COVID-19 vaccines cannot cause a COVID-19 infection.

Can I get the vaccine if I am immunocompromised?

Immunocompromised individuals were not a part of clinical trials for any of the vaccines. This means no research was done on this population so there is no information available on safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends you speak with your health care provider to determine if the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the potential risks.

You will be asked to provide verbal confirmation that you have consulted your treating provider when you arrive at the clinic.

Can I get the vaccine if I am pregnant and/or breastfeeding?

Pregnant and breastfeeding people were not a part of clinical trials for any of the vaccines. This means no research was done on this population so there is no information available on safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends you speak with your health care provider to determine if the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the potential risks.

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) released a statement in favour of getting the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy and during lactation if they are eligible and no contraindications exist.

Read their consensus statement.

You will be asked to provide verbal confirmation that you have consulted your treating provider when you arrive at the clinic.

Can I get vaccinated if I have had previous allergic reactions?

If you have a history of significant allergic reactions and/or anaphylaxis to any food, drug, venom, latex, or other allergens not related to mRNA vaccines, you can be vaccinated with and will be asked to wait 30 minutes for observation after you receive your vaccine.
If you have allergy issues such as allergic rhinitis, asthma or eczema, you can be vaccinated, and will be asked to wait 15-30 minutes after your vaccine for observation.
If you have had an allergic reaction and/or anaphylaxis that occurred after a vaccine, an investigation will need to be done by your local health department. If you have a history of a reaction to a vaccine outside of the normal side effects, please phone the Durham Health Connection Line to have them initiate an investigation.
If you have had an allergic reaction including anaphylaxis to a previous dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine or to any of its components, you should not receive any mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in a general vaccine clinic. An investigation will need to be completed by your local health department. If you experienced an allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, please phone the Durham Health Connection Line to have them initiate an investigation.

The components include polyethylene glycol and, due to potential cross-reactivity, polysorbate.

Are there any precautions myself or my family should take?

Delay vaccination if you have a fever, are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, or have received a vaccine in the past 14 days.
Avoid trying to get pregnant for at least a month after getting both doses of the vaccine.

If you are on blood thinner medication, a smaller needle will be used and you will need to apply pressure for longer after getting the vaccine to reduce bruising.

Do I need the vaccine if I already tested positive for COVID-19?

Yes. Individuals who previously tested positive for COVID-19 are encouraged to get the vaccine if they are no longer symptomatic and meet other eligibility criteria.

Reinfections with COVID-19 are possible, it is important to protect yourself by getting the vaccine.

If a person develops an adverse reaction to a vaccine, what should they do?

Seek medical attention if you have trouble breathing, develop hives, or develop swelling of the face and throat. As with all vaccines, vaccine side effects will continue to be monitored as people receive the vaccine.

If you develop a reaction to the vaccine, contact your health care provider who will report the side effect directly to public health. Public health will keep track of the reported side effects to make sure the vaccine continues to be safe.

Who should not get the vaccine

The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for all individuals in the authorized age groups without contraindications.

for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine - 16 years of age and older.
for Moderna, AstraZeneca and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine - 18 years of age and older.

The COVID-19 vaccine is in limited supply at this time.

Priority groups have been identified and people will be able to get the vaccine in a phased approach based on the Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan.
The mRNA vaccines will be prioritized and distributed according to Ontario's Distribution Plan.
The viral vector-based vaccines will be prioritized for different populations than noted in Ontario’s Distribution Plan.
Individuals most at risk of getting the virus and/or experiencing negative health outcomes will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine first.

Vaccine approval and clinical trial (testing) information

How was Health Canada able to approve the COVID-19 vaccine so quickly?

Creating a new vaccine can take years. The COVID-19 vaccine happened so quickly for many reasons including:

advances in science and technology,
international collaboration among scientists, health professionals, researchers, industry and governments; and
increased funding to find a vaccine.

Health Canada developed a fast-track review process to assess COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccine manufacturers were able to submit research and new evidence for review by Health Canada as it becomes available and throughout clinic trials. Previously, all clinical trials had to be completed prior to applying for Health Canada approval. Health Canada has implemented greater scientific resources, so reviews are completed in a timely manner without compromising any standards for vaccine use in Canada.

Vaccines are only approved once evidence shows that COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, of good quality and that the benefits outweigh any risks.

Check out this video for more information about how the COVID-19 vaccine was developed.

Who were the mRNA vaccines tested on?

The clinical trials included over 70,000 people; 43,448 people were included in the Pfizer trials; 30,000 people were included in the Moderna vaccine trials.

Approximately 42 per cent of global participants have racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Clinical trials include a wide variety of people to be sure the evidence will support the diverse needs of our population. There are some groups of people who were not included in the clinical trials, including people who are pregnant or breast/chestfeeding, people under the age of 16, or people who have weaker immune systems. Vaccine clinical trials typically start with healthier people and, if successful, go on to other at-risk populations. This can take additional time to decide if a vaccine is effective but is very important as these people are at greater risk of adverse COVID-19 impacts.

The vaccine trials included people over the age of 65 and the vaccine was found to be safe and effective in this age group.

Who were the viral vector-based vaccines tested on?

The clinical trials included over 55,000 people; 44,325 people were included in the Janssen trials; 11,636 people were included in the AstraZeneca vaccine trials.

Approximately 20 per cent of global participants in the AstraZeneca trials and 40 per cent of global participants in the Janssen trials have racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds;

The majority of the people in the clinical trials were under the age of 65 and healthy. There are some groups of people who were not included in the clinical trials, including people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people under the age of 18, or people who have weaker immune systems. Vaccine clinical trials typically start with healthier people and, if successful, go on to other at-risk populations. This can take additional time to decide if a vaccine is effective but is very important as these people are at greater risk of adverse COVID-19 impacts.

How to find trustworthy information on the Internet

Are you overwhelmed about all of the COVID-19 vaccine information on the Internet?

It is normal to feel nervous about new things. The Internet is filled with all sorts of information and you want to do what is best for you and your family. It is important that you review information that is trustworthy, science-based and updated on a regular basis.

Here are some points to consider to ensure that a website has credible, trustworthy, non-biased, science-based information:

Who are the authors of the website? Can you trust them? How can I contact them?

Look for information on the website to find out more about the organization and how to contact them. It’s best not to use information from a site if you can’t tell who is responsible for the content. Health information should be endorsed by a trustworthy health agency or professional organization. Experts should be identified using their credentials (e.g. degrees, current positions etc.).

Has the site been developed by a reputable leader such as a government organization, professional association, or respected non-profit organization?

Some special interest groups publish information that isn’t based on evidence, or that focuses on the organization’s opinion of an issue.

Is the information credible? Does the information seem reasonable?

Credible information is based on up-to-date evidence that comes from proper research. Unless you have special training in ‘research methods’, it can be hard to tell if health information is based on proper research. Look for the following when trying to find credible information:

Is the information current?
The website should clearly show when the information was posted, reviewed or last updated. The dates can often be found at the bottom of the page.
Is there evidence to support the advice?
Even an expert opinion is still just a point of view unless it’s supported by evidence. The site should provide references and sources for evidence such as articles from trustworthy medical journals or texts or include reports or statistics.
Is the information peer reviewed?
Peer reviewed means that it has been reviewed by other experts in the field. The site should specify the type of peer review (for example, a board or committee of experts that is not in a conflict of interest). Websites that are not peer reviewed may have unproven claims that seem too good to be true. Unfortunately, when something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Does the site explain or provide references?
The website should be specific about the source of any information by providing a list of references, studies or articles.

Is the information presented in a professional way using clear and easy-to-understand language?

Be wary of information that is based on the experiences of a few individuals who may not have professional expertise in that specific area.

What are some credible resources?

Debunking the myths about the COVID-19 vaccines

Myths vs facts

Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines can give you COVID-19

Fact: None of the COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Canada use the live virus that causes COVID-19. The vaccines work by teaching the immune system how to recognize and fight the "spike proteins" found on the COVID-19 virus. Sometimes this process can cause symptoms, such as fever. These symptoms are a sign of the immune response to vaccine. These symptoms are minor and resolve in a few days. Most people who get the vaccine continue to go about their daily activities as usual.

After getting the COVID-19 vaccine, it takes about two weeks to build immunity. It is possible that someone could become infected with the COVID-19 virus before or just after getting the vaccine and get sick. This happens because the vaccine has not had enough time to provide protection in the body.

Myth: COVID-19 vaccines can alter your DNA

Fact: COVID-19 vaccines do not alter your DNA. mRNA vaccines do not affect or interact with DNA and mRNA is destroyed by cells once the body has finished using its instructions.

Myth: The messenger RNA technology used to make the COVID-19 vaccines is brand new

Fact: mRNA technology has been around and studied for over two decades, it is not new technology but is a new platform for vaccines.

Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly, and safety corners were cut

Fact: The COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly. This is because of advances in science and technology, international collaboration among scientists, health professionals, researchers, industry and governments, and increased funding to find a vaccine.

Health Canada developed a fast-track review process to assess COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccine manufacturers are able to submit research and new evidence for review by Health Canada as it becomes available and throughout clinic trials. Previously, all clinical trials had to be completed prior to applying for Health Canada approval. Health Canada has implemented greater scientific resources, so reviews are completed in a timely manner without compromising any standards for vaccine use in Canada.

Vaccines are only approved once evidence shows that the vaccine is safe, effective, of good quality and that the benefits outweigh any risks; the COVID-19 vaccine is not an exception to this important rule.

Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines were developed with or contains controversial substances

Fact: The first two COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in Canada contain mRNA and other, normal vaccine ingredients, such as fats (which protect the mRNA), salts, as well as a small amount of sugar. These COVID-19 vaccines were not developed using fetal tissue, and they do not contain any material, such as implants, microchips or tracking devices. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines do not contain gelatin or pork products.

Myth: The side effects from the COVID-19 vaccines are dangerous

Fact: The most frequent side effects are pain at the injection site, feeling tired and headache. Some people also feel muscle pain, chills, joint pain and fever. These symptoms are mild to moderate and go away a few days after getting the vaccine. These side effects are similar to those of the seasonal influenza vaccine.

Myth: There are no ongoing safety checks of the COVID-19 vaccines

Fact: In Canada there is ongoing monitoring and reporting of every vaccine given. If a reaction occurs after getting a vaccine that is not one of the normal side effects, an adverse event following immunization (AEFI) form is completed by your health care provider. The AEFI form will detail what vaccine was received, when it was received, the reaction that occurred and how long it took the reaction to appear after the vaccine was given.

Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines can cause Bell’s palsy

Fact: During the clinical trials for both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, seven cases of Bell’s palsy were reported weeks after receiving the vaccine. More than 70,000 people were involved in the two clinical trials. The frequency of these cases is no greater than the frequency of Bell’s palsy in the general population.

Myth: I’ve already had the COVID-19 virus, I don’t need a vaccine.

Fact: Reinfection with COVID-19 may be possible. If you were infected with COVID-19 in the past, it is still recommended you get the COVID-19 vaccine. It is not known if people who were sick with COVID-19 have antibodies and are protected from re-infection.

Myth: Getting the COVID-19 vaccine if I am immunocompromised is harmful

Fact: Immunocompromised individuals were not a part of clinical trials for either of the vaccines. This means no research was done on this population so there is no safety information available. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends you speak with your health care provider to determine if the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the potential risks.

Myth: COVID-19 vaccines are worse than getting COVID-19

Fact: The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective.

With any medication, the COVID-19 vaccine can have side effects but most of them are mild and short term, not serious or dangerous. Some people who receive the vaccine experience pain where they were injected, body aches, headache or fever lasting a day or two. These side effects are a sign of the immune response to vaccine. These symptoms are minor and resolve in a few days. Most people who get the vaccine continue to go about their daily activities as usual.

Becoming infected with the COVID-19 virus can lead to a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Other symptoms that are less common and may affect some patients include loss of taste or smell, aches and pains, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, red eyes, diarrhea, or a skin rash. Complications from COVID-19 can include serious conditions, like pneumonia or kidney failure and, in some cases, death.

Myth: When I get the COVID-19 vaccine I can stop wearing my mask and taking COVID-19 precautions

Fact: Until we have more of the population immunized against COVID-19 you will be required to continue to follow public health measures such as wearing a mask, practising physical distancing, avoiding gathering and limiting travel.

At this time, we know the COVID-19 vaccine helps to fight off COVID-19 if you come into contact with it, but we do not know if you are able to pass it to others.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Who is eligible to book a vaccine?

Definitions

Learn more about booking an appointment

Hot spot pop-up and mobile clinics

Workplace vaccination clinics

Mass clinics

Ensuring the mass immunization clinics are accessible for seniors

The following community agencies can provide free or low-cost transportation to attend vaccination clinics, if transportation is a barrier.

Durham Region COVID-19 vaccination clinic locations

Frequently asked questions about vaccination clinics

Pharmacy program and health care providers

Health care providers

Pharmacies

Homebound mobile immunization for eligible clients

Make a referral for the COVID-19 vaccine to be given at home

Extension of second dose for COVID-19 vaccines

About the COVID-19 vaccines

Debunking the myths about the COVID-19 vaccines

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