Lambton Public Health is expanding COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to younger individuals.
The health unit has announced that as of Tuesday, May 18, those 12 years old and up are able to book their vaccination appointment at the Point Edward mass immunization clinic.
Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Sudit Ranade said it's exciting news, and allows families to book together.
"We know that the province is going to move toward getting this group into appointments," said Dr. Ranade. "So we want people to book together as families. We're basically throwing the doors open. That doesn't mean show up without an appointment and it doesn't mean that you can get an appointment tomorrow, but it means that virtually anyone is eligible at this point."
Dr. Ranade said on Friday, May 14, the region reached a 50 per cent vaccination rate.
He estimates by the end of the month, close to 65 per cent of the eligible population will have had their first shot.
"We have completed the majority of phase one and are also making good progress with phase two of the provincial government's program, which opened up to group two of essential frontline workers who cannot work from home last week," said Dr. Ranade. "Many of those workers will receive their first dose in the next two to three weeks."
Individuals 18 years of age and older may book their appointment at any available clinic.
Dr. Ranade said as eligibility opens up, clinics are booking up quickly.
"Be patient if you can't get an appointment right away, come on back to the system and try again," he said. "We're still in a place where patience and kindness are important. We're still in a place where our supply does not match the number of people who are eligible but it's really exciting, and I think we're really moving toward a really good summer."
To book your shot visit the www.GetTheVaccine.ca or call the vaccine call centre at 226-254-8222.