The safety of our patients, residents, visitors and families is our top priority. North York General Hospital continues to closely monitor COVID-19 and has implemented enhanced changes across the organization. Below, you will find frequently asked questions for patients and visitors.
BIVALENT Booster Vaccine
As of September 26, 2022, individuals 18 years and over can receive the bivalent COVID-19 booster six months from their last COVID-19 dose. You can receive a dose at a minimum interval of three months with informed consent.
For those who have had a previous COVID-19 infection, the recommendation is to wait at least three months before receiving the bivalent booster.
Seniors in the North York area who require assistance getting their vaccination appointment can contact the Seniors’ Hotline for North York at 416-447-5200.
While Omicron has shown to be mild in those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, it can lead to severe illness and death among unvaccinated individuals or those who are immunocompromised. There is also high community spread which means it is much easier to become infected and spread the virus. More widespread transmission also means a higher number of hospitalizations across Ontario. It is recommended everyone get three doses of the vaccine to protect against Omicron.
The evidence is becoming clear – three doses is much more effective than two doses against Omicron. Everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive their third doses if eligible.
Health Canada has approved the pediatric Pfizer vaccine as safe and effective for 5 to 11 year olds. The vaccine meets quality standards, and the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks of COVID-19 infection. Health Canada continues to monitor for safety.
Common COVID-19 vaccine side effects in children are similar to those seen in adults. Side effects are usually mild and go away within 1-3 days. They include:
Sore arm near the injection site
Feeling tired
Headache
Achy muscles or joints
Fever and chills
There are many resources and supports available to help you talk to your child in an age- appropriate way about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.
Hand holding is a very effective way of comforting your child while getting their vaccine. You can also have them sit on your lap where you can hug them while firmly holding their arms down. If the child is younger they may also have them sit on your lap facing tummy to tummy.
See our videos on how to manage needle pain and phobia with your child:
Adults aged 18 years and older are eligible for 3rd and 4th doses. At least three months must have passed since the previous dose to be eligible for the 3rd dose, and five months must have passed to be eligible for the 4th dose for most people.
3rd doses are also available for youth ages 12-17 years. Six months must have passed since the 2nd dose. Individuals must be 12 years old at the time of receiving the 3rd dose.
See the City of Toronto COVID-19: Vaccines website section on third doses for more information.
You can access a booster (third or fourth) dose through the following:
Seniors in the North York area who require assistance getting their vaccination appointment can contact the Seniors’ Hotline for North York at 416-447-5200.
Anyone who is 18 and over can schedule a booster dose vaccine appointment at least five months (104 days) after their last dose. Additional doses provide extra layers of protection against COVID-19.
A recent infection will give you some natural immunity for a period of time (months) so it’s best to wait at least one month after your infection before booking your next vaccine appointment. If you had two doses of the vaccine before becoming infected you are at higher risk of becoming reinfected if you do not have a third dose.
COVID Vaccine Eligibility
Please see the City of Toronto website for a comprehensive overview of current eligibility.
Yes. Individuals without a photo OHIP card may bring another form of a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, a piece of registered mail, pay stub, student card, government issued identification from other jurisdictions including: foreign passports, other provincial or territorial health cards, or driver’s license. Expired government issued identity documents will also be accepted for this purpose.
Should a person have no identity documentation or photo documentation they may work with their public health unit and/or community organizations to verify their identity. This may be provided in the form of a letter from a community organization or other identity verification form.
If you are a senior in the North York area and require assistance getting to your vaccination appointment, contact the Seniors’ Hotline for North York at 416-447- 5200.
Visitors, families and caregivers are an important part of our community. Please see our Visitor Information page for the latest guidelines and processes in place at North York General sites.