With the Omicron variant expected to soon be the dominant strain of COVID-19 in Ontario, the government is expanding eligibility for third doses of vaccine.
At a news conference Friday afternoon, it was announced that eligibility will be expanded to all Ontarians 18 and older on January 4, 2022. Booster shots will be offered six months after a person got their second dose.
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore indicated on Thursday, 10 per cent of all samples detected at public health labs were positive for Omnicron.
On Monday, individuals 50 and older will be able to book their booster shot appointments, opening up the third dose to around 5.5 million Ontarians.
“All Ontarians are strongly urged to follow these and existing measures and get vaccinated with a first, second or booster dose if you have not done so already. These are the layers that are protecting everyone. By taking these actions, we can help to reduce the mobility of COVID-19 and its variants, protect public health and health system capacity, and save lives. This is especially important as we enter the holiday season and spend more time with family and friends. We need to keep each other safe,” said Dr. Moore.
The government also announced it will not be lifting the proof of vaccination requirements on January 17 as originally announced.
“As we continue to learn more about the Omicron variant, we are taking additional measures to protect our progress as we head into the winter months,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Getting vaccinated and adhering to public health and workplace safety measures will continue to protect us and our loved ones against COVID and variants, but we won’t hesitate to continue to take swift action to ensure the continued health and safety of all Ontarians.”
In addition to extending the vaccine requirements, starting on January 4, people will be required to use the enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code and the Verify Ontario app in settings where proof of vaccination is required.
The province will also be strengthening the verification process for medical exemptions and clinical trial exemptions by requiring a certificate with QR code. All medical exemptions will need to be verified by the local health unit.
Finally, starting on December 20 all youth aged 12 to 17 will be required to show proof of vaccination while participating in organized sports at recreational facilities.
