Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has issued an urgent recommendation for residents to receive the latest COVID-19 vaccine this fall to shield themselves against circulating variants. The revamped KP.2 mRNA vaccine promises an improved defense against infections and potentially severe complications related to COVID-19.

Eligible individuals aged 6 months and older who received their last vaccine dose or tested positive for COVID-19 more than six months ago should prioritize getting this updated vaccine. Moreover, first-time vaccine recipients are also encouraged to get vaccinated, particularly those at an elevated risk of severe illness.

Who Needs to Get Vaccinated?

The OPH has identified several groups particularly susceptible to severe COVID-19 outcomes, including:

- Adults aged 65 and over

- Residents of long-term care and congregate living facilities such as retirement homes

- People with underlying health conditions, including children with special healthcare needs

- Pregnant individuals

- Members of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities

- Individuals from racialized and other marginalized communities

When Can You Get Vaccinated?

As of October 28, 2024, all residents aged 6 months and older will be able to access the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Until then, several options exist for those urgently needing the vaccine:

- Local pharmacies are now administering the updated vaccine, supplied by the Ontario Ministry of Health; check with your nearest pharmacy to get vaccinated.

- Consult your healthcare provider about vaccine availability.

- Starting October 15, 2024, OPH Community Clinics and Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs will provide the updated vaccine to priority populations, including newcomers without health coverage and children under 2.

Booking Your Appointment

From October 9, 2024, residents can start booking appointments for the updated vaccine at OPH Community Clinics. You can schedule through the Ontario COVID-19 vaccination portal or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007). For those preferring a walk-in option, OPH Neighbourhood and Wellness Hubs will cater to drop-in vaccinations.

Stay Safe This Fall!

As cases of respiratory illness rise during fall, OPH emphasizes the importance of protective measures. Here are simple steps everyone can take:

- Stay home if you're feeling unwell until you are fever-free and your symptoms have shown improvement.

- Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer, avoiding touching your face without clean hands.

- Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.

- Frequently disinfect surfaces that are often touched, both at home and at work.

- Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date, which includes your annual flu shot.

Additional Resources

Remember to avoid visiting vulnerable populations such as those in long-term care facilities when you're sick, and consider wearing a mask in crowded settings or if you're recovering from an illness.

In addition, the Ontario Ministry of Health is set to launch vaccination campaigns for flu and RSV this fall, with more details to come. For respiratory illness-related information—including the much-anticipated fall vaccines—be sure to visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RespVirus.

If you think you have COVID-19, check the Province’s website for guidance on symptoms, testing, and treatment options. Follow OPH on social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram for timely updates about public health initiatives. Don’t wait—arm yourself with the latest in vaccination options and protect yourself this fall!