London-area residents over the age of 80 will be able to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment starting Tuesday.
Area health units including the Middlesex London Health Unit, Southwestern Public Health, and Huron Perth Public Health announced Monday that they are expanding the eligibility list for the first phase of the COVID-19 vaccination program. Indigenous adults over the age of 55 and additional groups of healthcare workers were added to the eligibility list.
Middlesex London Medical Officer of Health Dr. Chris Mackie said being able to vaccinate our highest risk citizens is an exciting step.
"[The additional healthcare workers] would include people who work in procedure oriented facilities like [operating rooms] or radiation centres -- clinics where there is hand-on exposure and one potential staff person being ill could potentially affect many vulnerable people."
Dr. Mackie said those medical workers who have pre-registered through their employer are now eligible to book their appointments, and that workers will receive booking directions through their employer.
Dr. Mackie said Indigenous adults over 55 can also now book their appointment.
"Again, this is in keeping with the provincial framework -- Indigenous adults over the age of 55 are considered a significantly increased risk, and so they are now eligible. They can book appointments starting today or as early as March 6."
Those 80 years of age and older will be able to start booking appointments March 2 at 7:00 a.m. Appointments can be made over the phone by calling 226-289-3560 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., seven days a week.
For a full list of all healthcare workers and sectors currently eligible for a first-dose, click here.