Mississauga, Brampton residents now have to wait only 28 days to get second dose of COVID vaccine

As of next week, Mississauga and Brampton residents who receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can get their second shot as soon as a month later.

Under the Provincial government’s new plan to vaccinate the Ontario public quicker, those who are scheduled to get a first dose May 31 or after can book their second dose for 28 days later, based on the availability of the medication.

Calling the new strategy “the first-in, first-out” process, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said they are able to speed up the delivery because of the anticipated arrival of a consistent supply of the vaccine from Pfizer and Moderna.

Up to now, most people in Ontario have had to wait four months between doses.

“Accelerating second doses will provide more protection to Ontarians sooner,” said Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott. “Every dose administered means we are one step closer to the end of the pandemic, and I encourage all Ontarians to get vaccinated and continue following public health advice.”

Ontarians who have had their first dose and are eligible for an accelerated second dose may be able to return to the same site or channel where they received their first dose for their second dose appointment, or may choose to book an appointment at a different site or channel.

Second dose appointments can be rebooked through the provincial booking system and through pharmacies. For those in public health units who use their own booking system, or who received their doses from the primary care provider or through a pop-up clinic, more information will follow on how and when second dose booking and rebooking will be available. Second dose appointments can also be booked (without a first appointment) in the provincial booking system.

Ontario has already begun offering second doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at an accelerated pace with a 10-week interval for individuals who received their first dose between March 10 to March 19.

From now on, acceleration of AstraZeneca second doses will be provided at a 12-week interval, dependent on vaccine supply, with booking eligibility based on the date of the first dose. Eligible individuals are encouraged to contact the pharmacy or primary care provider where they received their first dose to book an appointment.

The province will provide further guidance based on advice expected shortly from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) with respect to administering doses of two different vaccine types. This advice will be provided in advance of the 12-week interval when most people are needing to receive their second dose.