Waterloo Public Health has announced that anyone between the ages of 18 and 59 will be able to get a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccine beginning on Thursday.
Previously, the second booster was available only to those 60 years old or older, First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals aged 18 and over or a non-Indigenous household member aged 18 and over.
The agency says that people in the high-risk groupings, including those over 60, Indigenous people, those who are immunocompromised or those living in long-term care or retirement homes, should get a second booster shot as soon they can.
“I would also encourage people who haven’t received their third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to get it now, especially if they are in a vulnerable group,” said Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, medical officer of health.
“Our community has the tools to reduce the impact of COVID-19 during a seventh wave, including staying up to date with vaccination, masking in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, and improving indoor air ventilation.”
The province expanded the eligibility for those over the age of 18 on Wednesday, as long as five months (or 140 days) have passed since they received their third dose.
The region says eligible residents can now get the booster dose from a pharmacy or family doctor.
The region says it is now using the province’s booking system for those interested in getting an updated shot at its vaccination clinics. It will be requiring an appointment initially, as it is anticipating that there will be a high demand.