About the vaccine

Residents who are eligible for their first dose or a second dose can book an appointment at immunization clinics in Huron and Perth, at select pharmacies, or from some healthcare providers. Walk-ins are also accepted at HPPH clinics during specified times; no appointment necessary. 

All residents are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as they can, and to receive their second dose as soon as they are eligible, to ensure maximum protection against COVID-19.

Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine

Everyone 12 years of age and over in Ontario is currently eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Effective Wednesday, August 18, 2021, all youth who were born in 2009 (turning 12 in 2021) will be eligible to receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

  • Individuals 12 to 17 years of age may only receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
  • Individuals 18 and older may receive the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine

Available vaccines

After independent and thorough scientific reviews for safety, efficacy and quality, Health Canada has approved four vaccines for use in Canada:

  • Pfizer-BioNTech (approved December 9, 2020)
  • Moderna (approved December 23, 2020)
  • AstraZeneca (approved February 26, 2021)
  • Janssen (Johnson & Johnson | approved March 5, 2021)

What you need to know before getting vaccinated

The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone in Ontario.

COVID-19 vaccines are not given at the same time as other vaccines. If you received another vaccine recently (not a COVID-19 vaccine), make sure that your appointment is at least 14 days after you received the other vaccine. Wait at least 28 days after getting the COVID-19 vaccine to receive any other vaccines. 

If you have a fever or COVID-19 symptoms, please reschedule your appointment for a later date, when you are feeling better.

Consult with your health care provider before getting vaccinated if you:

  • Are on medications that weaken your immune system; you may want to time your vaccination with your medications
  • Had an allergic reaction within four hours after receiving your first COVID-19 vaccine dose
  • Have severe allergies to any of the vaccine ingredients

Your health care provider will review the benefits and risks of your unique situation.

What to bring

  • Your completed vaccine consent form
  • Your OHIP (health) card (or another piece of identification)
  • Your mobility device, if you use one, and one support person, if needed
  • Face mask or covering
  • Wear a short-sleeved shirt
  • Remember to have something to eat, and drink some water before you arrive
  • Plan for ways to relax (bring headphones to listen to music, or a book to read)

What to expect at a community vaccination clinic

Wondering what it's like to get your COVID-19 vaccination at one of our community clinics? This video show what to expect.

  • You must wear a face mask or covering at the immunization clinic
  • Clinic staff will answer any questions you may have and get your consent for the vaccination
  • Let the staff know if you've fainted in the past or are anxious about getting vaccinated
  • Immediately let the clinic staff know if you feel unwell at any point
  • You must stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after you receive the vaccine to monitor for any reactions
  • The entire process will take about 30 minutes

After you receive your vaccine

Some common side effects that you may experience after your vaccination include:

  • pain at the injection site,
  • redness, swelling,
  • tiredness,
  • headache,
  • enlarged lymph nodes,
  • muscle or joint pain,
  • chills,
  • fever,
  • upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea.

Serious side effects are rare. However should you develop any signs or symptoms such as:

  • hives,
  • swelling of the face or mouth,
  • difficulty breathing,
  • very pale colour and serious drowsiness,
  • high fever (over 40°C),
  • convulsions or seizures,
  • or other serious symptoms (e.g., prolonged "pins and needles" or numbness) that could be an allergic reaction,

seek medical attention right away or call 9-1-1.

If you are concerned about any reactions you experience after receiving the vaccine, contact your healthcare provider.

If you become ill, with any COVID-19 symptoms, even after receiving the vaccine, you must self-isolate and get tested. It is still possible to come in contact with the COVID-19 virus and develop symptoms if you are fully vaccinated.

Two doses of vaccine are needed for full protection. About 14 days after your second dose, you will be considered fully vaccinated. Keep following public health measures such as wearing a face covering, physically distancing, washing hands frequently, and staying home when sick, to stop the spread of COVID-19, even after you are fully vaccinated.