Region ready to give COVID-19 booster shots to residents of Oakville, Milton, Burlington

Halton Public Health is getting ready to roll out third doses of COVID-19 vaccines now that the province has outlined eligibility rules.

The shots will start Saturday, Nov. 6, for Halton residents who are at least 70 years old, healthcare workers and designated essential caregivers in congregate settings, anyone who received two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine or one dose of the Janssen (aka Johnson and Johnson or J&J) vaccine, or First Nation, Inuit and Métis adults and their non-Indigenous household members.

Even if you’re eligible, the booster vaccine will only be given at least six months after your second dose.

Beginning Saturday, eligible individuals can book appointments at a Halton Region Community COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic through Halton’s online booking system.

“We have had great success with our vaccine program so far and 85 per cent of our residents are fully vaccinated,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr.

“Thank you to everyone who has rolled up their sleeves or helped someone get to their appointment. Our clinics, online booking system and friendly 311 staff are ready to support those now eligible to receive a third dose. There are many options to receive your third dose including over 100 pharmacies and primary care clinics across the region.”

Appointments will be required for all first, second and third doses and walk-ins will no longer be offered at Halton Region COVID-19 Community Vaccination Clinics after Friday, November 5. Appointments are available five days a week at all four Halton community clinics across the region:

• FirstOntario Arts Centre (Milton)
• Gary Allan Learning Centre (Burlington)
• Gellert Community Centre (Halton Hills)
• YMCA (Oakville)

The regional clinics are moving back to an appointment-only system, no walk-ins. They must be booked through the regional portal, not via the province nor directly with the clinics.

Residents who require assistance, can call 311 to book their appointment. Transportation services to and from appointments are available, free of charge, for those who require it.

For your appointment, make sure you bring your health care, arrive 10 minutes prior, not earlier, wear a mask and go alone, if you can, bringing no more than one support person if necessary.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit the region’s website.