Supplies of an updated COVID vaccine designed to provide enhanced protection against the XBB 1.5 variant should be widely available by the end of the month, according to Heather Howe, media coordinator with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU). “Over the next couple of weeks, we’ll be focused on high risk groups including residents of retirement homes and other congregant living settings. We expect the vaccine to be available to the general public by Oct. 30.”
Others at high risk of serious illness from COVID include those over 65 years of age, pregnant women, members of indigenous communities and people with chronic underlying health conditions. The vaccine is approved for children over six months old, and is recommended for anyone whose last COVID shot was more than six months ago. The Health Unit is also encouraging everyone to get a flu shot which can be safely administered at the same time.
Dr. Colin Lee, SMDHU’s Associate Medical Officer of Health says an uptick in case numbers is to be expected.
“We are already seeing increased COVID-19 and influenza activity in our area and these trends are expected to continue through fall and winter,” said Lee. “By knowing your risk and using layers of protection, we can help prevent viral spread and lower the risk of illness impacting our schools, workplaces, and local health care system.”
The health unit recommends that individuals be aware of the community risk level and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others against infection. Simple, yet crucial actions such as staying home if you have symptoms, frequent hand washing, wearing a face mask when required, and staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations can help stop the spread.
The COVID-19 Community Risk Level is based on five indicators (percent positivity of PCR tests, local cases, hospitalizations, institutional outbreaks, and wastewater surveillance) that are monitored weekly. Currently the overall risk for Simcoe Muskoka is moderate. There were 82 lab reported cases in the week of Oct. 1-7.
The SMDHU is currently waiting on supplies of the updated Moderna vaccine, which will be distributed to participating pharmacies and health care providers. The Health Unit will also hold pop-up clinics throughout the area. Information on vaccine clinics will be available at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org.