COVID-19 vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

Visit our Vaccination Clinics for COVID-19 page to see who is currently eligible, and for information on clinic dates and locations. This page is updated frequently as new information becomes available.

Given the need to continue following personal protective measures, mass immunization clinics for COVID-19 will look different than the mass immunization clinics that people are used to. Clinic layouts may vary from smaller groups of people attending clinics to the hockey hub model. Immunizations will be administered primarily by appointment only, with some walk-in opportunities available at select clinics. All Public Health-led clinics offer mRNA vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna). Individuals who book into mass immunization clinics will receive an mRNA vaccine. The vaccine offered will be dependent on what we have available at the time of the particular clinic.  We will provide information regarding the mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) planned for the clinic, subject to change based on vaccine availability. On site posters will identify the type of vaccine available at the clinic. You can speak with the immunizer if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine available to you at the clinic.

Here is what to expect before, during, and after your vaccination for COVID-19.

Before your appointment

1. Bring your health card. If you do not have a health card or your health card is expired, bring another form of government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, Status card, or birth certificate.
2. Eat and drink something before you arrive at your appointment to prevent feeling faint or dizzy while being vaccinated.
3. Wear a top that allows for easy access to the upper arm such as a loose-fitting top or a t-shirt.
4. Bring a mask that covers your nose, mouth, and chin.
5. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, do not attend the clinic. Please cancel your appointment.
6. For further information on the vaccine and your appointment, see the Ministry of Health’s document entitled what you need to know before your COVID-19 vaccine appointment.

Upon arrival for your scheduled vaccination

1. Wear your mask or face covering, use hand sanitizer, and maintain physical distancing.
2. You will be screened at the door for COVID-19.
3. You will be checked-in for your appointment and be seated in the waiting area.
4. You will be called to receive your immunization. The immunizer will answer any questions you may have and ensure that you are an eligible candidate for the vaccine (without contraindications).
5. You may ask your immunizer to record the immunization on your Immunization Record if you brought it with you, although proof of vaccination will be given to you, with an option to email it if you choose.

After receiving your COVID-19 vaccination

1. Following your COVID-19 vaccination, you will be seated in the waiting area for a period of 15 minutes (some people may be asked to wait for 30 minutes) as a precaution.
2. You will be checked-out, provided with a proof of vaccination receipt, and the appointment for your second dose will be booked.
3. Should you experience any adverse effects, as with all immunizations, inform your primary health care provider or seek emergency medical care if warranted.
4. Remember that mild side effects can be a sign that your immune system is working to build an immune response. Refer to the Ministry of Health’s vaccine after care sheet for more details.

Currently, Public Health Sudbury & Districts uses Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty and Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccines in its clinics. Both are mRNA vaccines and highly effective against COVID-19. Individuals who book into mass immunization clinics will receive an mRNA vaccine. The vaccine offered will be dependent on what we have available at the time of the particular clinic. We will provide information regarding the mRNA vaccine planned for the clinic. You can speak with the immunizer if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine available to you at the clinic.

While Health Canada has approved the Moderna Spikevax vaccine for individuals under 25, the province of Ontario uses Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty vaccine for youth ages 12 to 17 and recommends Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty for those aged 18 to24. This is due to an observed increase in Ontario of the very rare heart condition called pericarditis/myocarditis following vaccination with Moderna Spikevax compared to Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty in the 18 to 24 age group, particularly among males. Anyone 18 to 24 who wishes to receive Moderna Spikevax may continue to do so with informed consent. Vaccination is highly recommended; the benefits of vaccination outweigh the potential risks. First or second doses of the AstraZeneca Vaxzeria  vaccine can be given under special circumstances, for example upon recommendation of an allergist/ immunologist where a confirmed allergy exists to mRNA vaccines.

Pharmacies and primary care setting will start administering COVID-19 vaccines in early April, during Phase 2 of the vaccine rollout in our area.

Yes. If you work, study, or live in Ontario you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, free of charge. Eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine remains the same as for the flu vaccine.

The COVID-19 vaccine will be made available to everyone in Canada for whom it is approved and recommended. This applies to all individuals in Canada whether they are citizens or not.

Yes. To book your appointment, have another form of identification available such as a passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, employee identification, First Nations identification, MRN (Medical Record Number), or out of Province health card. The vaccine will be administered to you at no cost. Anyone who works, studies, or lives in Ontario is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

On the day of your COVID-19 vaccination, bring documentation that confirms your identify. If needed, you may bring more that one form of documentation that includes a photo, your full legal name, and date of birth. For example, a health card, a piece of registered mail, pay stub, student card, government issued identification from other jurisdictions like foreign passports, other provincial or territorial health cards or drivers licence. Identification will be accepted even if it has expired.

If you do not have any forms of identification or cannot provide proof of your primary place of residence, we will work with you to verify your identity. For example, obtain a letter from a community organization or other forms of identity verification.

The COVID-19 vaccine will be made available to everyone in Canada for whom it is approved and recommended. This applies to all individuals in Canada whether they are citizens or not.

Please contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts to book your vaccine appointment at 705.674.2299 (toll-free: 1.800.708.2505), between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., seven days a week.

Individuals who have received their COVID-19 vaccine(s), either a complete or partial series are asked to contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts, so we can update your immunization record. You will require proof of immunization, for example, an immunization record or proof of vaccine certificate (PVC). Please contact us at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).

If you completed your COVID-19 vaccine series with an authorized vaccine recognized by Health Canada or the World Health Organization, we will update your vaccine record, indicating that you have completed the vaccine series. No additional doses will be needed.

If you have received a partial series, meaning your first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine with a vaccine that requires two doses, read the next question (below) for details.

If you have received a partial series, meaning your first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine with a vaccine that requires two doses, please contact Public Health Sudbury & Districts to have your immunization record updated. You will be required to provide proof of vaccination, for example, an immunization record or proof of vaccine certificate (PVC). Contact us at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).

Once we have updated your immunization record and reviewed the details of the specific vaccine you received, you will be able to book your next vaccine appointment via telephone or online. Based on which vaccine you received for your first does and vaccine availability in Ontario or locally, we will review the options and help you decide how to proceed. In most cases, this will include booking your second dose to complete your series. In some cases, you may be offered to re-start your COVID-19 vaccine series with a Health Canada authorized COVID-19 vaccine. For more information, read COVID-19 Guidance for individuals vaccinated outside of Ontario / Canada  (Ontario Ministry of Health, PDF).

The COVID-19 vaccine aims to prevent illness. The COVID-19 vaccine will train the body’s immune system to recognize the COVID-19 virus. If you are exposed, it will prevent you from getting sick. Currently, the following four COVID-19 vaccines have been approved by Health Canada:

1. Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty (Government of Canada) – for use in individuals born in or before 2009, without contraindications. Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty is the recommended vaccine for individuals under the age of 25, due to the higher risk of the rare heart condition, myocarditis/pericarditis, observed following Moderna Spikevax vaccination compared with Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty, in this age group.
2. Moderna Spikevax (Government of Canada) – for use in individuals 18 years and older, without contraindications. All individuals 18 to 24 who wish to receive Moderna Spikevax must provide informed consent and understand the increased risk of myocarditis/pericarditis for their age group.
3. AstraZeneca Vaxzria(Government of Canada) – for use in individuals 18 years and older. At this time, Ontario has paused the rollout and administration of first doses of AstraZeneca Vaxzeria First doses should only be given in extenuating circumstances (i.e. on the recommendation of an allergist/immunologist where a confirmed allergy exists to components of the mRNA vaccines).
4. Janssen (Johnson & Johnson)(Government of Canada) – for individuals 18 years and older, without contraindications. Although approved by Health Canada, this vaccine is not currently available in Ontario.

Each of the approved vaccines (Government of Canada) were demonstrated to be highly effective against COVID-19. For more details, see the COVID-19 vaccine sheet (Government of Ontario, PDF)

After receiving a vaccine, it takes about two weeks for the body to develop an effective immune response. A second dose is needed with each of the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty, Moderna Spikevax and AstraZeneca Vaxzevria vaccines. The Government of Ontario recommends that a third dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine be offered to select vulnerable populations. The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) is a single-dose vaccine.

Currently, Public Health Sudbury & Districts has access to COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. Both are mRNA vaccines and highly effective against COVID-19.

Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine is safe for use in approved populations. Due to the ongoing pandemic, Health Canada conducted an expediated, or rolling, approval process. This means that the vaccine was evaluated for safety and efficacy while it was being developed, and again when it was finalized. Though faster, all of the components of a routine approvals process were addressed. The Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine and the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine were authorized for use in Canada under the Interim Order. The interim order expired on September 16, 2021. On this date, theses vaccines transitioned to full authorization under the Food and Drug Regulations.

For more information, please watch the video linked below:

• COVID-19 How vaccines are developed (Health Canada)

In general, messenger ribonucleic acid, or mRNA, tells our cells which proteins to make. The COVID-19 vaccine is an mRNA vaccine and it tells our cells to make proteins that are part of the coronavirus. These proteins are called “spike proteins”. Once made, spike proteins are recognized by our immune system as foreign and our system starts to create antibodies to clear our bodies of this foreign material. The immune system removes the mRNA from the vaccine and destroys the spike proteins with antibodies. Our immune system also remembers this foreign material. This means that if someone receives the COVID-19 vaccine, develops an immune response, and then gets the virus, their immune cells will be able to recognize and destroy the viruses before they can make the person sick.

Although COVID-19 mRNA (Health Canada) vaccines are new for use, mRNA vaccines are not unknown, researchers have been studying and working with them for decades. For more information on mRNA vaccines please watch our Quick Facts Videos.

A viral vector-based vaccine uses a harmless virus as a delivery system to carry instructions to the body. Both the AstraZeneca and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines are viral vector-based vaccines. In each case, a weakened adenovirus is used (not the virus that causes COVID-19).

The weakened virus tells your body to produce a spike protein. These spike proteins are seen on the surface of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Your body will then make antibodies to clear the spike proteins from your body and you will be better equipped to clear them in the future if you are exposed to COVID-19.  The vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19 as it does not contain the virus for COVID-19.

The administration of first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine is now paused. Read Ontario’s statement. As of May 21, 2021, the Government of Ontario announced that second dose administration of the AstraZeneca COIVD-19 vaccine may proceed. Read Ontario’s News Release.

Yes. The clinical trials for the COVID-19 vaccines included people of different races and ethnicities. Vaccine efficacy is continuously analyzed for all races and ethnicities.

No, the COVID-19 vaccine cannot cause a COVID-19 infection. The COVID-19 vaccines currently approved do not use live components of the virus. This means that it is impossible for them to cause COVID-19 infection.

Current evidence suggests that existing COVID-19 vaccines work against COVID-19 and variants.  Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada continue to monitor the effectiveness of the vaccines.  There is no evidence to suggest that the vaccine will not be effective against COVID-19 and variants.

The vaccine against COVID-19 continues to be our best defense and is highly recommended for all who are over the age of 12, without contraindications. All COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at preventing serious illness leading to hospitalization or death.

The Delta variant can spread more easily and is associated with higher rates of hospitalization, ICU admission and death as compared with the Alpha variant. COVID-19 vaccines are effective against Delta, but there is evidence of reduced protection against symptomatic disease after one dose. This means that two-dose vaccine coverage is important for everyone.

Visit our COVID-19 vaccine clinic page to find out where you can get your vaccine.

While a complete two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series provides strong protection against COVID-19 infection and severe outcomes in the general population, for some, a third dose may be required to maintain immunity.

The Government of Ontario has recommended that a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine be offered to individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised:

• Individuals receiving active treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy) for solid tumour or hematologic malignancies.
• Recipients of solid-organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy.
• Recipients of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within 2 years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy).
• Individuals with moderate to severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).
• Individuals with stage 3 or advanced untreated HIV infection and those with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
• Individuals undergoing active treatment with the following categories of immunosuppressive therapies:
  • anti-B cell therapies (monoclonal antibodies targeting CD19, CD20 and CD22)
  • high-dose systemic corticosteroids (refer to the CIG for suggested definition of high dose steroids)
  • alkylating agents
  • antimetabolites
  • tumor-necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors
  • other biologic agents that are significantly immunosuppressive.

Individuals who are taking immunosuppressive medication due to being moderately or severely immunocompromised may also be eligible for a third dose. For a list of which medications qualify, please see the Clinic Guide to Verifying Immunosuppressive Prescriptions for Third Doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine (Ministry of Health, PDF, 679 KB). Eligible individuals can get a third dose by visiting a public health led vaccination clinic or pharmacy with proof of prescription vial, receipt, or prescription confirmation in hand.

Vulnerable elderly in congregate settings including:

• Residents of Long-Term Care Homes (LTCH), Retirement Homes (RH), Elder Care Lodges, and elderly living in other congregate settings (e.g. assisted-living facilities, chronic care hospitals, naturally occurring congregate retirement settings/congregate senior’s apartment buildings, etc.).

A third dose will help to provide individuals in these groups with an improved immune response. Individuals who are in these immunocompromised groups may receive the vaccine at minimum 8 weeks following their second dose. These individuals will be informed by a health care provider when eligible.

Individuals who reside in congregate settings should be offered their third dose at least five months (20 weeks) after their second dose. If available, residents are to receive the same vaccine product as their second dose. Residents will be notified of vaccination opportunities once eligible.

The Delta VOC (Government of Canada) is one of four VOC mutations of the COVID-19 virus detected to date. The Delta VOC is more transmissible with a greater risk of disease severity as compared with the Alpha variant (first detected in the United Kingdom). The Delta variant is spreading throughout Ontario.

It is more important than ever to get fully vaccinated with two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible. Completing the COVID-19 vaccine series with two doses boosts immune response and improves vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 and the Delta variant. Studies show that while one dose can protect against hospitalization, two doses are required for good protection against getting sick with the Delta variant. Visit the Vaccination clinics for COVID-19 web page for booking information.

In addition, The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (Government of Ontario) has confirmed that the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are interchangeable. This means you can safely get either mRNA product to complete your vaccine series with a high level of effectiveness, regardless of which mRNA vaccine you got for your first dose. Either option for your second dose is safe, provides strong protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant, and will complete your COVID-19 vaccine series.

People with allergies to any component of the vaccine or its container should not get the COVID-19 vaccine unless you have been evaluated by an allergist/immunologist and it is determined that you can safely receive the vaccine.

Anyone who had a serious reaction (anaphylaxis) to the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine should not receive a second dose of that COVID-19 vaccine. It is recommended that you be assessed by an allergist/immunologist to seek other possible (re)administration of a COVID-19 vaccine.  For example, if you had an allergic reaction to a viral-vector based vaccine you should be assessed to possibly receive an mRNA vaccine.

If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine in the past (with no components of a COVID-19 vaccine), you may receive the vaccine but should wait for 30 minutes following your COVID-19 vaccination for observation.

You should wait before getting your COVID-19 vaccine if you are currently sick. Wait until your symptoms have resolved before getting your COVID-19 vaccine.

If you have allergies, for example to foods, oral drugs, insect venom, latex, or environmental allergies, (allergies that are not related to a component of a COVID-19 vaccine or other injectable therapy), you can receive a COVID-19 vaccine without any special precautions. Individuals with allergy issues like asthma and eczema can receive the vaccine followed by observation for a minimum of 15 minutes.

If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine in the past (with no components of a COVID-19 vaccine), you may receive the vaccine but should wait for 30 minutes following your COVID-19 vaccination for observation.

If you have an allergy to any components of the COVID-19 vaccine you should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, if had an allergic reaction within 4 hours of receiving a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, you should not receive a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine unless you have been evaluated by an allergist/immunologist and it is determined that you can safely receive the vaccine.

If you had a serious reaction (anaphylaxis) to the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, you should not receive a second dose of that COVID-19 vaccine. It is recommended that you be assessed by an allergist/immunologist to seek other possible (re)administration of a COVID-19 vaccine.  For example, if you had an allergic reaction to a viral-vector based vaccine you should be assessed to possibly receive an mRNA vaccine.

Breastfeeding individuals can choose to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. It is recommended, but not required, that individuals talk with their treating health care provider, before getting the COVID-19 vaccine. This conversation can, and often will occur, between the individual and the immunizer during the appointment. The breastfeeding individual should be aware that based on available data, the mRNA from vaccines do not transfer into breast milk. In addition to this, recent research has shown that the antibodies produced by the breastfeeding person have been shown to transfer through the milk and provide protection to the infant. For more details, please refer to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations for Special Populations (PDF, Government of Ontario) and COVID-19 Vaccination: Special Populations Vaccination in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Decision-Making Support Tool (PDF, Government of Ontario).

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada indicates that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine at any time if they are eligible and don’t have contraindications. For further details, refer to their statement on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy (PDF, Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada). For additional help with your decision-making process as a patient, refer to the Ministry of Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Patient Decision-Making Tool (PDF, Government of Ontario).

The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for pregnant individuals who don’t have contraindications. For help with your decision-making process as a patient, refer to the Ministry of Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Patient Decision-Making Tool (PDF, Government of Ontario).

The National Advisory Committee on Immunizations (NACI) recommends that pregnant individuals receive a full COVID-19 vaccine series (preferably with an mRNA vaccine). The Government of Ontario recommends that all pregnant individuals get vaccinated as soon as possible at any stage in pregnancy.

It is recommended, but not required, that individuals who are pregnant talk with their treating health care provider, or with a health care provider familiar with their pregnancy, before getting the COVID-19 vaccine.  A conversation about the potential risks and benefits of the vaccine will be important to determine if it is right for you and will help to ensure that an informed choice is made. This conversation should also cover the potential risks of acquiring a COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, the potential risks or consequences associated with a COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and acknowledgement of the limited evidence from clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines in the pregnant population. For more information, refer to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations for Special Populations (PDF, Government of Ontario) and COVID-19 Vaccination: Special Populations Vaccination in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Decision-Making Support Tool (PDF, Government of Ontario).

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada indicates that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine at any time if they are eligible and don’t have contraindications. For further details, refer to their statement on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy (PDF, Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada). Based on decades of experience administering other vaccines during pregnancy, it is expected that the COVID-19 vaccine would yield similar effectiveness in pregnant individuals as they would with non-pregnant individuals. In general, vaccines are immunogenic, safe, and efficacious when given to pregnant individuals.

People who have autoimmune conditions, immunodeficiency conditions, and those who are immunosuppressed can choose to receive the COVID-19 vaccine following a thorough conversation with a health care provider. This conversation can, and often will occur, between the individual and the immunizer during the appointment. For specifics about this conversation, please refer to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations for Special Populations (PDF, 154 KB).

The Government of Ontario has recommended that a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine (PDF, 259 KB) be offered to select vulnerable populations:

Moderately to severely immunocompromised:

• Individuals receiving active treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy) for solid tumour or hematologic malignancies.
• Recipients of solid-organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy.
• Recipients of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within 2 years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy).
• Individuals with moderate to severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).
• Individuals with stage 3 or advanced untreated HIV infection and those with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
• Individuals receiving active treatment with the following categories of immunosuppressive therapies:
  • anti-B cell therapies (monoclonal antibodies targeting CD19, CD20 and CD22)
  • high-dose systemic corticosteroids (refer to the CIG for suggested definition of high dose steroids – Health Canada)
  • alkylating agents
  • antimetabolites
  • tumor-necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors
  • other biologic agents that are significantly immunosuppressive.

Individuals who are taking immunosuppressive medication due to being moderately or severely immunocompromised may also be eligible for a third dose. For a list of which medications qualify, please see the Clinic Guide to Verifying Immunosuppressive Prescriptions for Third Doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine (Ministry of Health, PDF, 679 KB). Eligible individuals can get a third dose by visiting a public health led vaccination clinic or pharmacy with proof of prescription vial, receipt, or prescription confirmation in hand.

Vulnerable elderly in congregate settings including:

• Residents of Long-Term Care Homes (LTCH), Retirement Homes (RH), Elder Care Lodges, and elderly living in other congregate settings (e.g. assisted-living facilities, chronic care hospitals, naturally occurring congregate retirement settings/congregate senior’s apartment buildings, etc.).

A third dose will help to provide individuals in these groups with an improved immune response. Individuals who are in these immunocompromised groups may receive the vaccine at minimum 8 weeks following their second dose. These individuals will be informed by a health care provider when eligible.

Individuals who reside in congregate settings should be offered their third dose at least five months (20 weeks) after their second dose. If available, residents are to receive the same vaccine product as their second dose. Residents will be notified of vaccination opportunities once eligible.

The Northeast Cancer Centre (NECC) has established a process regarding COVID-19 vaccination for cancer patients in Northeast Ontario, including Sudbury and districts area. Cancer patients with questions about the timing of their COVID-19 vaccine in relation to their treatment, whether chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy or other therapies, are asked to call 705-522-6237 x2900. A nurse will review your cancer treatment schedule with you, provide counsel, and determine the most appropriate timing for your COVID-19 vaccine, given your specific circumstances.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, your immunization should be postponed until they resolve. Waiting to get the vaccine until you are feeling well will allow you to identify any side effects, without potentially confusing them with symptoms of an illness. It will also help reduce the risk of transmitting the illness at the immunization clinic site.

Yes. The National Advisory Council on Immunization (NACI) recommends that people who have previously had a confirmed COVID-19 infection get the COVID-19 vaccine. This is because the length of time immunity lasts after a COVID-19 infection resolves is currently unknown, and reinfections have been reported.

Yes. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) issued recommendations on the use of COVID-19 vaccines and the timing of their administration with other vaccines.

NACI now recommends that COVID-19 vaccines may be given at the same time as, or any time before or after, other vaccines, including live, non-live, adjuvanted, and non-adjuvanted vaccines.

There is no need to wait before getting another type of vaccine. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) issued recommendations on the use of COVID-19 vaccines and the timing of their administration with other vaccines. NACI now recommends that COVID-19 vaccines may be given at the same time as, or any time before or after, other vaccines, including live, non-live, adjuvanted, and non-adjuvanted vaccines.

The vaccine has been shown to prevent or reduce symptoms due to COVID-19, thereby reducing hospitalizations and possible long-term effects. We expect that the COVID-19 vaccine will contribute to ending the pandemic. It will also help to keep our case numbers low, protect lives, our health care system, our education systems as well as our economy.

Here are some more reasons for getting the vaccine for COVID-19 including variants:
1) COVID-19 can be a serious illness for many people (especially older adults).
2) For some people, symptoms can last for months (leaving long-term effects).
3) The virus can even damage the heart, brain, lungs and increase the risk of long-term health problems.
4) Even young, healthy people can feel unwell for weeks to months following a COVID-19 infection.
5) There is a greater risk of mortality among older adults, particularly those living in Long Term Care Homes.
6) Maintaining your health, helps to keep the people around you healthy.

Remember, even after you get the vaccine, keep following personal protective measures until most people have been vaccinated.

Yes. The COVID-19 and influenza vaccines may be administered at the same time, using different injection sites for each vaccine. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) issued a statement that COVID-19 vaccines may be given at the same time (Government of Canada) as, or any time before or after, other vaccines including live, non-live, adjuvanted or unadjuvanted vaccines.

Like most vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine will be administered intramuscularly (into the muscle) at the top of the arm.

Currently, the dosing schedule requires two doses, for each of the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty, Moderna Spikevax (Health Canada). The Government of Ontario recommends that a third dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine be offered to select vulnerable populations. The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) (Health Canada) COVID-19 vaccine requires only a single-dose. First or second doses of the AstraZeneca Vaxzeria vaccine can be given under special circumstances, for example upon recommendation of an allergist or immunologist where a confirmed allergy exists to mRNA vaccines.

Like any other vaccine or medication, there are potential side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine, although not everyone experiences them Individuals who experience side effects mostly reported them as being mild and within the first two days after vaccination.  The most common side effects include pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, chills, and mild fever.

With ongoing monitoring of the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines serious side effects found are extremely rare.  Individuals who experienced these rare side effects appear to be mild and respond well to conservative treatment (e.g., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and rest.

If you experience side effects that are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days, please seek immediate medical attention. Examples of side effects can include:

• hives
• swelling of the face or mouth
• trouble breathing
• chest pain
• irregular heart rate
• serious drowsiness
• high fever (over 40°C)
• convulsions or seizures
• other serious symptoms (e.g., “pins and needles” or numbness)
• myocarditis and pericarditis

Speak with your health care provider if you experienced any symptoms or adverse events after vaccination. All adverse reactions will be documented in real time and reported to Public Health for follow-up.

The benefits of COVID-19 vaccines continue to outweigh their potential risks, as scientific evidence shows that they reduce deaths and hospitalizations due to COVID-19. The federal, provincial, and local public health authorities encourage people to get vaccinated and to complete their vaccine series as soon as they are eligible. The COVID-19 vaccine may also help stop the spread to others.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization strongly recommends that two doses of an mRNA vaccine should be offered to all individuals 12 years of age and older. Receiving a second dose will provide you with better and longer protection against COVID-19, including the delta variant.

Yes. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (Government of Canada) has confirmed that a mixed vaccine schedule for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) is both safe and effective and the mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are considered interchangeable.

This means, if you received Pfizer for your first dose, you can receive Moderna for your second dose and vice versa. Either option for your second dose is safe, provides strong protection against COVID-19, and will complete your COVID-19 vaccine series. The mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) have a very similar mechanism of action, are highly effective and result in the antibodies your body needs to fight COVID-19.

If you get a different mRNA product for your second dose, the minimum dosing interval is determined by the product monograph of your first dose. This means, if you got a first dose of Pfizer, you can get your second dose of either mRNA vaccine a minimum of 21 days later. If you got a first dose of Moderna, you can get your second dose of either mRNA vaccine a minimum of 28 days later. Once you are ready and eligible for your second dose, it is recommended that you get the first available mRNA vaccine, without delay.

All Public Health-led clinics offer an mRNA vaccine. We will provide information regarding the type of mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) planned for each clinic, subject to change based on vaccine availability. You can speak with the immunizer if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine available to you at the clinic.

With informed consent, individuals who received AstraZeneca for their first dose have two options to choose from for their second dose. This means the second dose can be an mRNA vaccine or a second dose of AstraZeneca.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (Government of Canada) states that an mRNA vaccine is the preferred option as the second dose (8 to 12 weeks later) for those who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. This is based on evidence of potentially better immune response from this mixed vaccine schedule and to mitigate the potential risk of Vaccine-Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT) associated with viral vector vaccines. Alternatively, you can get AstraZeneca for your second dose, 8 to 12 weeks after your first dose. Getting two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine provides good protection against COVID-19.

While evidence shows that a longer interval between two doses of AstraZeneca (12 weeks) provides more protection, some may choose to receive their second dose sooner to have the protection from the second dose earlier. Both options for second doses are safe, provide protection against COVID-19, and will complete the COVID-19 vaccine series.

With the COVID-19 Delta variant spreading throughout Ontario, it is more important than ever to complete the vaccine series and boost immune response. Individuals must complete the vaccine series with two doses to improve vaccine effectiveness. It is recommended that you get the first available vaccine, without delay to complete your vaccination series.

To ensure maximum protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant, individuals should get their second dose as soon as they are eligible. With the COVID-19 Delta variant spreading throughout Ontario, it is more important than ever to get your second dose to complete your vaccine series as full vaccination offers the greatest protection. All vaccines provided in Ontario provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

A small number of cases of myocarditis and pericarditis have been identified in Ontario. However, these cases have typically been mild. Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle and pericarditis is inflammation of the lining around the heart.

The Public Health Agency of Canada and Health Canada are closely monitoring the situation. Available information to date indicates the following:

• Cases were more commonly reported after the second dose.
• Symptoms typically appeared within several days following vaccination.
• Cases were mainly among adolescents and young adult.
• Cases were among males more often than females.
• Cases experienced mild illness and symptoms improved quickly (they responded well to conservative treatment and rest).

Based on recommendations from The National Advisory Committee on Immunization, all individuals born in 2009 or earlier should continue to be offered two doses of an mRNA vaccine. While Health Canada has approved the Moderna Spikevax^® vaccine for individuals under 25, out of an abundance of caution, Ontario issued a preferential recommendation of the use of Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty^® vaccine for individuals aged 18 to 24 years old. The Ontario Ministry of Health is recommending that individuals 18 to 24 be immunized with the Pfizer-BioNTEch Comirnaty^® vaccine instead of Moderna Spikevax^®, due to concerns of the higher risk of myocarditis and pericarditis. All individuals 18 to 24 who choose to receive Moderna Spikevax^® must provide informed consent and understand the increased risk of myocarditis/pericarditis for their age group. Vaccination is highly recommended; the benefits of vaccination outweigh the potential risks.

Informed consent is required for all vaccinations. Individuals eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine who have questions, are encouraged to speak with their health care provider prior to receiving an mRNA vaccine.

As a precaution, individuals who experienced the rare myocarditis and/or pericarditis after a first dose of an mRNA vaccine (Public Health Agency of Canada) should wait to get their second dose until more information is available.

All vaccines used in Ontario have been approved by Health Canada and are safe and effective. Public Health Sudbury & Districts continues to recommend getting your COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to you. With the Delta variant circulating in Ontario, all individuals are encouraged to book an appointment or attend a walk-in clinic as soon as possible for their first or second dose.

At this time, there are no recommendations for the general public to get a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in Canada.  The Government of Ontario recommends that a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine be offered to select vulnerable populations that face the highest risk of serious illness from the virus, including those who are moderately to severely immunocompromised and vulnerable elderly living in congregate settings. A third dose will help to provide these at-risk individuals with an improved immune response and add an extra layer of protection.

The Government of Ontario has recommended that a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine (PDF, 259 KB) be offered to select vulnerable populations:

Moderately to severely immunocompromised, including:

• Individuals receiving active treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy) for solid tumour or hematologic malignancies.
• Recipients of solid-organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy.
• Recipients of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within 2 years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy).
• Individuals with moderate to severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).
• Individuals with stage 3 or advanced untreated HIV infection and those with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
• Individuals receiving active treatment with the following categories of immunosuppressive therapies:
  • anti-B cell therapies (monoclonal antibodies targeting CD19, CD20 and CD22)
  • high-dose systemic corticosteroids (refer to the CIG for suggested definition of high dose steroids– Health Canada)
  • alkylating agents
  • antimetabolites
  • tumor-necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors
  • other biologic agents that are significantly immunosuppressive.

Individuals who are taking immunosuppressive medication due to being moderately or severely immunocompromised may also be eligible for a third dose. For a list of which medications qualify, please see the Clinic Guide to Verifying Immunosuppressive Prescriptions for Third Doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine (Ministry of Health, PDF, 679 KB). Eligible individuals can get a third dose by visiting a public health led vaccination clinic or pharmacy with proof of prescription vial, receipt, or prescription confirmation in hand.

Vulnerable elderly in congregate settings:

• Residents of Long-Term Care Homes (LTCH), Retirement Homes (RH), Elder Care Lodges, and elderly living in other congregate settings (e.g. assisted-living facilities, chronic care hospitals, naturally occurring congregate retirement settings/congregate senior’s apartment buildings, etc.).

A third dose will help to provide individuals in these groups with an improved immune response. Individuals who are in these immunocompromised groups may receive the vaccine at minimum 8 weeks following their second dose. These individuals will be informed by a health care provider when eligible.

Individuals who reside in congregate settings should be offered their third dose at least five months (20 weeks) after their second dose. If available, residents are to receive the same vaccine product as their second dose. Residents will be notified of vaccination opportunities once eligible.

Health care providers will contact eligible individuals to provide a third dose or to provide individuals with a referral form to get their third dose. The referral form is required and must be brought with individuals to a clinic in order to get a third dose. In addition to health care providers’ offices and pharmacies, individuals can access a third dose at Public Health led vaccination clinics provided they have a completed referral form in hand.

Effective July 16, 2021, staff who are fully immunized and asymptomatic (have no symptoms) will no longer require testing. Fully immunized means that 14 days have passed since you received your second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Fully immunized visitors who are asymptomatic will no longer require testing either. For staff who are partially immunized or not yet immunized, regular testing remains a requirement. For more, read Ontario’s news release on updated testing requirements at long-term care homes.

If you are unwell after you receive your COVID-19 vaccination and are and unable to work, you may be eligible for paid pandemic leave for the period of illness up to 14 consecutive calendar days. Please consult your supervisor and administrator if you need to take pandemic leave.

If you experience mild COVID-19 symptoms after vaccination, follow the instructions from your workplace.

Starting November 15, 2021, COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all in-home staff, support workers, students, and volunteers working in a long-term care homes unless a staff member has a valid medical exemption (Government of Ontario, PDF). Individuals who are not vaccinated and have a valid medical exemption must submit to regular antigen testing at a minimum of once every seven days. For more information on mandatory vaccination for all long-term care home staff read the Government of Ontario’s news release. Refer to the next question below for information on the COVID-19 vaccination policy in long-term care homes.

Yes, to protect those in vulnerable settings the Government of Ontario has issued a directive mandating that high-risk settings, including long-term care homes, introduce COVID-19 vaccination policies for employees, staff, contractors, students and volunteers. For details, visit Ontario.ca.

For a complete list of documents required to plan and implement a clinic at your location, please refer to our guidance for health care providers, long-term care homes, and retirement homes and review the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Communications in a Box. In addition, review all planning documents on the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Long-Term Care’s website.

Public Health Sudbury & Districts is leading the planning and roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine and working with local agencies and key stakeholders to coordinate distribution, administration, and public communication. Public Health has a mandate to reduce vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization and has much experience in community-based publicly-funded immunization programs. Throughout planning, we will continuously consider local engagement, geography, access, and equity. This ongoing work will continue to be informed by a depth of experience with the seasonal influenza vaccine campaign as well as with immunization campaigns in response to the H1N1 pandemic and local cases of meningitis and hepatitis A, among others.

The Province of Ontario is leading the overall immunization strategy for Ontario and identifying who will get the vaccine first. The Province has announced a phased approach to immunization and identified key population groups (Government of Ontario) that should receive the vaccine first.

The Federal Government is responsible for obtaining and approving vaccine. They will also distribute the vaccine across the country, as part of Canada’s response to COVID-19.

The simple answer is no, at least not right away. Continue to follow  personal protective  measures like wearing your mask or face covering, practising physical distancing, and washing your hands frequently will be necessary even after vaccination. . This is until we achieve widespread protection against the virus.

Everyone should continue to practice  personal protective measures even after being immunized. Once you are fully vaccinated (two doses) you benefit from protection against COVID-19. At the same time, you will need to continue following public health measures in public settings like workplaces and public transit.

Even after vaccination, individual protective measures such as masking and physical distancing, will continue to be important.

The vaccine is highly recommended for all eligible individuals.

To protect vulnerable patients and staff in settings where the risk of contracting and transmitting COVID-19 and the Delta variant, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health issued a directive (Ministry of Health) on August 17, 2021 mandating hospitals and home and community care service providers to have a COVID-19 vaccination policy for employees, staff, contractors, students and volunteers, and for ambulance services to have a COVID-19 vaccination policy for paramedics.  For details, visit Ontario.ca.

It was also announced that vaccination policies will be implemented in other higher-risk settings such as:

• Publicly-funded school boards;
• Post-secondary institutions;
• Licensed retirement homes;
• Women’s shelters; and
• Congregate group homes and day programs for adults with developmental disabilities, children’s treatment centres and other services for children with special needs, and licensed children’s residential settings.

Ontarians who receive a COVID-19 vaccine can obtain a vaccination receipt or certificate, which is required to access select public settings and facilities where . An enhanced COVID-19 vaccine certificate with official QR code may be downloaded from Ontario’s booking portal. You can also call 705.522.9200 (toll-free: 1.866.522.9200), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday to obtain a copy of your enhanced vaccine certificate (paper or digital). 

While Public Health Sudbury & Districts strongly encourages the implementation of a COVID-19 vaccination policy in the workplace, this recommendation is voluntary, and is not legally enforceable under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020. Some settings are subject to provincial requirements for vaccination policies including hospitals, ambulance services, home and community care services, post-secondary institutions, licensed retirement homes, women’s shelters, and congregate group homes. Learn more in the Government of Ontario news release.

A COVID-19 vaccine certificate also known proof of vaccination verifies that you have received a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Certain settings (Government of Ontario) require proof of vaccination.

Vaccine certificates are not a new concept. When starting elementary school, your parents had to submit your vaccination record to prove you were vaccinated against certain viruses so you could attend school in person. Another example is certain countries that require you to show proof of certain vaccinations before you can enter the country.

For the general population, two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are required for strong protection against COVID-19. You will receive a vaccine receipt (either a printed copy or sent by email) after the administration of each dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. When you have completed the COVID-19 vaccine series, both vaccination receipts will appear in one proof of vaccine certificate (Government of Ontario, PDF). It is this vaccine certificate that you will use to enter the select settings that require proof of vaccination. Select individuals who are more vulnerable to the virus (Government of Ontario) are eligible for third doses and will be contacted by their health care provider if and when they are eligible for vaccination.

An individual is considered fully vaccinated (Government of Ontario, PDF) if they have received their final dose of one of the following options at least 14 days ago:

• The full series of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized by Health Canada, or any combination of such vaccines, or
• One or two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada, followed by one dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine authorized by Health Canada, or
• Three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada.

The vaccine certificate includes information about the date(s) you received the COVID-19 vaccine, the vaccine product, lot number, and clinic name.  A certificate can be any of the following:

• A paper copy of an Ontario vaccination receipt from a vaccine clinic
• A vaccination receipt signed by an Indigenous Health Provider
• An Ontario Ministry of Health vaccination receipt received by email following your appointment (digital or printed paper copy)
• A downloaded vaccination receiptfrom Ontario’s provincial booking portal. Please visit ontariohealth.ca and log in using your health card number.
• A vaccination receipt from another jurisdiction that shows you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• A downloaded enhanced vaccine certificate with official QR code from Ontario’s booking portal .

You do not need to apply for a vaccine certificate.

If you do not or if you are unable to access your vaccine certificate through the steps listed above, please call 705.522.9200 (toll-free: 1.866.522.9200), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday for assistance to obtain a copy of your vaccine certificate.

An enhanced digital vaccine certificate (Government of Ontario), as well as a verification application to give business the ability to read proof of vaccination via a QR code, is now available. A paper version of the enhanced vaccine certificate can also be downloaded and printed.

For more information on the vaccine certificates visit the Government of Ontario’s frequently asked questions backgrounder.

Yes. If you do not have access to a smartphone, you can use a paper version of your proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access the select public settings and facilities that require proof of vaccination.

While a vaccine receipt without a QR code remains valid and will still be accepted, everyone is encouraged to download a digital copy of the enhanced COVID-19 vaccination certificate through the COVID-19 vaccination portal for an easier, more secure and convenient way to show proof of vaccination.

If you do not have an Ontario health card, or to have your enhanced vaccine certificate emailed or mailed to you, please call 705.522.9200 (toll-free: 1.866.522.9200), between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

The following non-essential, higher-risk indoor public settings (Government of Ontario) will require proof of vaccination to enter:

• Indoor areas of restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments without dance facilities
• Indoor and outdoor areas of food or drink establishments with dance facilities, including nightclubs and restaurants, clubs and other similar establishments
• Indoor areas of meeting and event spaces
• Indoor areas of facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities, including waterparks, and personal physical fitness training with limited exemptions
• Includes gyms, fitness/sporting/recreational facilities, pools, leagues, sporting events, waterparks, and indoor areas of facilities where spectators watch events
• Indoor areas of casinos, bingo halls, and other gaming establishments
• Indoor areas of concert venues, theatres, and cinemas
• Indoor areas of bathhouses, sex clubs and strip clubs
• Indoor areas of horse racing tracks, car racing tracks and other similar venues
• Indoor areas where commercial film and TV productions take place with studio audiences.

For more information about which businesses will require proof of vaccination for entry see the Government of Ontario’s Proof of Vaccination Guidance for businesses and Organizations (PDF).

Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions (Government of Ontario) can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.

Medical exemptions include:

• Individuals with severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis to a previous dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or to any of its components and who have been assessed by an allergist/immunologist to review methods for possible (re)administration of a COVID-19 vaccine; and the allergist/immunologist has determined the individual is unable to receive any COVID-19 vaccine.
• Individuals who are delaying their second dose because of a diagnosed episode of myocarditis or pericarditis after receipt of an initial dose of an mRNA vaccine.
• Individuals aged 12-17 years old with a history of myocarditis unrelated to mRNA COVID-19 vaccination who have been assessed by a specialist on potential options for immunization where the specialist has determined the individual is unable to receive any COVID-19 vaccine.
• Individuals who experienced thrombosis and thrombocytopenia following vaccination with a viral vector COVID-19 vaccine should not receive the AstraZeneca /COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals should be seen by an allergist/immunologist for possible administration of a second dose with a mRNA vaccine.
• Individuals with a history of capillary leak syndrome should not receive the AstraZeneca /COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals should be seen by an allergist/immunologist for possible administration of a second dose with a mRNA vaccine.
• Individuals that are actively receiving monoclonal antibody therapy OR convalescent plasma therapy for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19.

Please note some medical exemptions can be permanent or time-limited. If time-limited, the note should indicate how long it is expected to last.

More information about Medical Exemptions can be found in the Government of Ontario’s Proof of Vaccination Guidance for businesses and Organizations (PDF), in the Vaccine Information Sheets and Special Populations Document available on the Ministry of Health’s website.

COVID-19 vaccine storage and handling conditions are outlined in detail in the Ministry of Health COVID-19 Vaccine Storage and Handling Guidelines.

Yes. New guidance outlining the specific transport requirements for the Pfizer vaccine were released early January 2021. This means that like the Moderna vaccine, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine can now be brought directly to the places where identified key populations (Health Canada) live. This includes places like long-term care homes, retirement homes, and congregate care settings, as well as rural and remote locations. Specific transportation requirements have been provided by the Ministry of Health to ensure that the vaccine is moved safely.