Fall vaccination drive targets high-risk residents across local communities
With colder months ahead, local health officials are gearing up to protect those most at risk from COVID-19, flu, and RSV. The Health Unit announced a schedule of walk-in vaccination clinics designed for people who are at higher risk of severe outcomes or who do not have a primary care provider. The aim is to provide easy access to vaccines this fall and reduce the burden of respiratory illness in the community.
Who is eligible for the initial clinic rollout
The Health Unit’s fall plan prioritizes several groups for walk-in clinics. Eligible individuals include residents and staff of congregate living settings, pregnant people, and those aged 65 and older. Younger children—six months to four years—are also prioritized, along with anyone aged six months or older with underlying health conditions. Additionally, members of First Nation, Inuit or Métis communities and their household members, as well as people from racialized and other equity-deserving communities, and healthcare workers and first responders, are encouraged to participate. RSV vaccination is also available at these clinics for eligible older adults.
How the vaccines work together and why they matter
Health officials emphasize that getting vaccinated is one of the most effective actions to protect individual health and the broader community. Vaccines have consistently reduced the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 and influenza. The RSV vaccine is a one-time protection that helps guard against respiratory illness across the lifespan, particularly for older adults and those with underlying conditions.
Convenience and timing
Dr. Carol Zimbalatti, Medical Officer of Health, notes that vaccines are free in Ontario and can be administered at the same visit, making it easy to protect against multiple viruses at once. Even if you already have a primary care provider, you can use clinic visits or participating pharmacies to get your vaccines. If you do not have a regular clinician, the Health Unit’s walk-in clinics are a convenient alternative.
Dr. Zimbalatti also reminds residents about timing: it is still recommended to wait six months after a last COVID-19 vaccine or infection before receiving the next COVID-19 dose. Vaccines being offered this year target current circulating variants, while the RSV vaccine is intended to be a one-time protection.
Upcoming clinic dates and locations
Fall clinics kick off in several communities, with schedules announced for high-priority groups. Upcoming dates announced include:
- Magnetawan: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., Magnetawan Community Centre, 4304 Hwy 520
- Mattawa: Tuesday, Oct. 21, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m., Mattawa Golden Age Club, 464 Poplar St.
- North Bay: Sunday, Oct. 26, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Elk’s Lodge, 325 Elks Ln.
- Parry Sound: Sunday, Oct. 19, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Bobby Orr Community Centre, 7-17 Mary St.
- Sundridge: Wednesday, Oct. 22, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m., SSJ Arena, 14 Albert St. N
Note that wait times at clinics may vary depending on the day and the number of people seeking vaccines.
What to do if you have special needs
High-risk individuals with unique needs can contact the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 to inquire about a private appointment. This ensures those with particular health considerations receive timely access to vaccines in a setting that suits their needs.
What’s next and how to stay informed
More community clinic dates will be released as eligibility expands to include the general public in November. To learn more about COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines, visit myhealthunit.ca or contact your healthcare provider. For online information about vaccines, you can also visit shn.ca/vaxfacts or Health811 to connect with health services.
As the season progresses, staying up to date with vaccinations offers not only protection for individuals but also peace of mind for families and the wider community.
