With the more transmissible Omicron variant rapidly becoming the dominant strain of COVID-19 in Ontario, it is highly recommended to get a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Why is it important to get a booster dose?

• 2 doses of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer and/or Moderna) are not as effective against Omicron. Booster doses help individuals maintain very good protection from severe illness and hospitalization.
• More people with boosters = less hospitalizations. Our healthcare system is so fragile, especially in our rural communities, getting boosted can help prevent our hospitals from becoming even more overwhelmed.
• With Omicron quickly spreading (doubling time in Ontario is projected to be every 3 days), getting your booster as soon as you are eligible is ideal. Vaccines are the best protection we have available.

Given the urgency and our commitment to the health and safety of our communities, the Marathon Family Health Team (MFHT) will be supporting the Thunder Bay District Health Unit in their efforts to quickly vaccinate all eligible adults with a booster dose over the coming weeks.

The MFHT will be offering 3 drop-in booster dose clinics on December 21st, 22nd and 29th. Please see the poster below for more details. Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 boosters will be available on a first come, first served basis. Please do not call the clinic to schedule an appointment – just show up on the times listed on the poster. 

Booster dose eligibility

As of December 20th, everyone 18+ will be eligible for a booster as long as it has been at least 84 days since their 2nd dose. Because they are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 infection, the MFHT is strongly encouraging eligible individuals who are 50 years of age and older to get their booster as soon as possible.

December 21st → Eligible if 2nd dose was on or before Sept 28th
December 22nd → Eligible if 2nd dose was on or before Sept 29th
December 29th → Eligible if 2nd dose was on or before Oct 6th

Please be advised that proof of vaccination will be required upon entry in order to verify the date of your 2nd dose and to confirm your eligibility.