COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility for Second Dose Now Open for Everyone 12 Years and Over
Written by Communications, July 6, 2021
Walk-ins Welcome for Youth First Doses at Peterborough Regional Health Centre Vaccine Clinic
As of Monday July 5, all residents who are 12 years of age or older are eligible to book a second dose appointment. Those aged 12-17 will be able to book a first and second dose appointment for the Pfizer mRNA vaccine through the provincial vaccine booking system or a local participating pharmacy.
“With youth now eligible to book their second doses, we should have more of our local population fully immunized and fully ready to enjoy this summer as the province opens up and more activities, like overnight camps,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “To receive the most protection against COVID-19 and the variants, all residents are encouraged to receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.”
Dr. Salvaterra added that accelerating second dose eligibility for residents aged 12-17 is especially important for a safe return to school in the fall. She also reminds residents that it takes an additional two to four weeks after the second dose to reach maximum immunity.
“The delta variant is more transmissible and can cause more severe illness than other COVID variants. One dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is not as effective at preventing illness from the delta variant compared to two doses,” Dr. Salvaterra points out.
To provide additional access to the vaccine for residents aged 12-17, Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) is accepting first dose walk-ins for this age group at its vaccine clinic starting Tuesday, July 6. PRHC’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic is located at 1 Hospital Drive inside the main entrance. This drop-in clinic is available Monday to Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for residents of Peterborough City, County, Hiawatha First Nation, and Curve Lake First Nation who are between the ages of 12-17 and who require a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Youth must be accompanied by one adult for walk-in appointments, and must provide their Ontario Health Card and proof of residence. Parking will be validated for individuals who are receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
Peterborough Public Health
705-743-1000, ext. 391
Michelene Ough
Director of Communications
Peterborough Regional Health Centre
705-743-2121, ext. 4259