COVID-19 Vaccination
Everyone who is 5 years of age or older can receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
To translate this web page into a different language, please scroll down to the bottom of the page, and click on Translate in the blue band at the bottom.
Do you require accommodation at our clinics or through the vaccine hotline? Please call 905-546-2489 or email [email protected] to identify your needs.
Do you require transportation assistance to attend a vaccine clinic? Please call DARTS at 905-529-1717 and press 0 or check the Ontario Community Support Association.
Fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are available for those age 60 and older and First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over, 5 months (140 days) after their previous booster dose. Some clinics require booked appointments for fourth doses.
Please check eligibility to receive a vaccine before visiting the clinic; you will be turned away at the clinic if you are not eligible. Check the date you are eligible for your next booster dose.
Book your vaccine appointment online if you:
- Have an Ontario health card (green photo health card OR red and white health card)
- Have an email address OR a cell phone that can receive SMS messages (texts)
If you do not have access to online booking, call the COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline at 905-974-9848, option 7 to book an appointment. Translation services are available by phone.
Appointments can be booked up to 14 days in advance. Additional appointments are added daily.
Web browsers supported for booking: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Microsoft Edge.
Individuals age 30 and over will be offered the Moderna vaccine when arriving at a vaccine clinic; however individuals can request to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Pfizer vaccine will continue to be offered to those under the age of 30.
Clinic locations & hours of operation
Translation is available at clinics. If you require assistance for accessibility reasons, please notify a greeter at the clinic.
Vaccine clinics (Age 5+)
Walk-in to receive a first, second dose or third dose at these clinics (if eligible). Some clinics require booked appointments for fourth doses. The clinics requiring appointments are indicated below. All other clinics allow walk-ins for fourth doses.
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
June 26 University Plaza Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
|
July 4 Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 27 East End Public Health Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 27 Putnam Family YMCA July 4 The Villages of Glancaster Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
|
9 am to 3:30 pm Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 28 Hamilton Public Library - Central Branch Appointment required for 4th dose June 28 Jackson Square Beside The Works, across from Booster Juice July 5 Eva Rothwell Centre Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
|
9 am to 3:30 pm Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 29 Jackson Square Beside The Works, across from Booster Juice June 29 & July 6 Hamilton Public Library - Red Hill Branch Appointment required for 4th dose July 6 Valley Park Community Centre Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
|
9 am to 3:30 pm Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 30 & July 7 Jackson Square Beside The Works, across from Booster Juice June 30 Chedoke Twin Pads Arena - Lower Level Appointment required for 4th dose July 8 Eastgate Square Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
|
9 am to 3:30 pm Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose 12:30 to 2:30 pm St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church Outdoor clinic, dress for the weather June 24 & July 8 Jackson Square
Beside The Works, across from Booster Juice June 24 Eastgate Square Outdoor GO-VAXX bus clinic, dress for the weather
June 24 July 8 Harry Howell Arena Appointment required for 4th dose |
June 25 Mountain Vaccine Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose June 25 & July 9 Jackson Square Beside The Works, across from Booster Juice June 25 Hamilton Public Library – Barton Branch June 25 July 9 East End Public Health Clinic Appointment required for 4th dose
|
Appointment-only clinics (Age 5+)
These clinics are available by appointment only.
Monday, Wednesday, Saturday Winterberry Family Medicine Pre-book an appointment online at winterberrymedical.ca |
De dwa da dehs nye>s Aboriginal Health Centre Call 905-544-4320 |
Walk-in clinics (Age 12+)
June 29 Mission Services Use Good Food Centre/Community Services entrance |
Pharmacy vaccination clinics
You can receive Pfizer or Moderna through participating pharmacies: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations
Booking vaccine appointments
I want to receive the J & J or Novavax vaccine. How can I access it?
If you are interested in receiving a Novavax or J&J vaccine, please call the COVID-19 vaccine hotline at (905) 974-9848, option 7 for more information and to find out about clinic options. J & J fact sheet
I had my first vaccine outside of Ontario. How can get a second dose?
You must bring proof of your first vaccine (i.e., paper receipt) and ID to the vaccine clinic. Clinic staff will review the documents.
When can I get a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine?
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends waiting at least 8 weeks between your first and second dose, as evidence suggests that compared to shorter intervals, longer intervals between the first and second doses result in a stronger immune response, higher vaccine effectiveness that is expected to last longer, and may be associated with a lower risk of myocarditis and/or pericarditis in adolescents and young adults. Eight weeks is recommended for best immune response and decreased risk of myocarditis and/or pericarditis, however with informed consent, bookings of 21-days between first and second doses for Pfizer, and 28-days between first and second doses for Moderna are permitted. You may wish to consult with your family doctor, pediatrician or pharmacist to understand benefits and risks.
Individuals age 5 and older who had COVID-19 before receiving their second COVID-19 vaccine dose, should receive their second dose 8 weeks after the start of symptoms, or the date of their positive test if they didn’t have symptoms. If an individual is moderately to severely immunocompromised, it is suggested they receive the vaccine 4-8 weeks after the start of symptoms or the date of their positive test if they didn’t have symptoms. You can discuss the timing of doses with your doctor or health care provider. With informed consent, individuals may also receive a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they do not have symptoms and have completed their isolation after being sick with COVD-19. However, longer intervals between infection and vaccination may result in a better immune response.
When can I get a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine?
For most individuals age 18+, you can get a booster dose 84 days (3 months) after receiving your second dose, and for those age 12-17 you can get a booster dose 168 days (6 months) after your second dose (or 3 months/84 days, with informed consent).
Individuals who have two doses of the vaccine and get COVID-19 are recommended to receive their booster dose (third dose) 3 months after their symptoms started or 3 months after receiving a positive test result if they didn’t have symptoms. Emerging evidence indicates that a longer interval between a COVID-19 infection and vaccination is associated with better antibody responses to COVID-19 vaccines. With informed consent, individuals may receive a booster dose once they do not have symptoms and have completed their isolation.
When can I get a fourth dose of a COVID-19 vaccine?
Fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are available for those age 60 and older and First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over, 5 months (140 days) after their previous booster dose. A longer interval provides a better immune response. However, with informed consent, these individuals can receive their vaccine 3 months (84 days) after their previous booster dose. See other eligible individuals
If I was vaccinated outside of Ontario, how can I get proof of vaccination?
If you were vaccinated in another country or province or if you received federal vaccine supply (i.e., Federal stock used for Correctional Facilities, Military groups, Embassies, First Nations etc), please fill out this form. If you are unable to complete this form on your computer, print the form and fill it out completely. Please submit the form and the proof of vaccination document that was provided from the clinic where you received the vaccine. You can submit these documents by:
- Fax 905-546-4841
- Drop off
City of Hamilton
Vaccine Program
2nd floor Robert Thomson Building, 110 King St W
Hamilton, ON
L8P 4V3
Drop off Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Mail
City of Hamilton
Public Health Services, Vaccine Program
P.O. Box 897, Hamilton, Ontario
L8N 3P6
It will take up to 7 days for the record to be reviewed and entered into the COVID-19 vaccination records database (COVAXon).
Residents are required to submit or show their record of receipt for the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine prior to receiving their second dose to ensure the correct interval between doses and to determine the need for a subsequent dose.
Please follow the steps below to obtain your proof of vaccination:
- Visit covid19.ontariohealth.ca
- Enter health card information
- Click on the yellow Vaccine Receipt button, and then you can download your receipt
If you do not have an Ontario Health Card, email [email protected] with the following information:
- Your phone number
- A sentence explaining that you are looking for proof of vaccination and that you do not have a green Ontario photo health card
For specific inquiries, call Hamilton Public Health Vaccine Records line at 905-540-5250.
If you would like more information about your vaccination, contact your health care provider or if you do not have a health care provider, call Hamilton Public Health Services Vaccine Infoline: 905-546-2424 ext. 7556.
COVID-19 Guidance for Individuals Vaccinated Outside of Ontario/Canada
At the vaccine clinic
Vaccine consent form (all ages), vaccine information and what happens after you receive your vaccine (33 languages)
What do I need to bring to my vaccination appointment?
- Proof of identity - government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, health card, passport, or Status Card can be used. Your ID needs to have your name, address, and photo and birthdate on it.
- Confirmation email or code.
- Wear a loose-fitting shirt with sleeves that roll up.
- You will be given a consent form at the Vaccine Clinic.
What ID can I use if I don’t have a health card?
Option 1: Show one of these pieces of ID that have your current Hamilton address
- your driver's licence
- any other card issued by a Canadian government (federal, provincial/territorial or local) with your photo, name and current address
Option 2: Show two pieces of ID
Both must have your name and at least one must have your current address. Examples below:
From a government or government agency
- Band membership card
- birth certificate
- Canadian citizenship card or certificate
- Canadian Forces identity card
- card issued by an Inuit local authority
- firearms licence
- government cheque or cheque stub
- government statement of benefits
- health card
- income tax assessment
- Indian status card or temporary confirmation of registration
- library card
- licence or card issued for fishing, trapping or hunting
- liquor identity card
- Métis card
- old age security card
- parolee card
- passport
- property tax assessment or evaluation
- public transportation card
- social insurance number card
- vehicle ownership
- Veterans Affairs health care identification card
From an educational institution
- correspondence issued by a school, college or university
- student identity card
- report card
From a health care facility or organization
- blood donor card
- CNIB card
- hospital card
- label on a prescription container
- identity bracelet issued by a hospital or long-term care institution
- medical clinic card
From a financial institution
- bank statement
- credit card
- credit card statement
- credit union statement
- debit card
- insurance certificate, policy or statement
- mortgage contract or statement
- pension plan statement
- personal cheque
From a private organization
- employee card
- residential lease or sub-lease
- utility bill (e.g.: electricity; water; telecommunications services including telephone, cable or satellite)
Letters of confirmation
- letter from a public curator, public guardian or public trustee
- letter of confirmation of residence from a First Nations band or reserve or an Inuit local authority
- letter of confirmation of residence, letter of stay, admission form, or statement of benefits from one of the following designated establishments:
- student residence
- seniors' residence
- long-term care institution
- shelter
- soup kitchen
- a community-based residential facility
Can I choose which vaccine I get?
Individuals age 30 and over will be offered the Moderna vaccine when arriving at a vaccine clinic; however individuals can request to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Pfizer vaccine will continue to be offered to those under the age of 30.
Age 30+
Individuals who received 2 doses of AstraZeneca/COVIDSHIELD or 1 dose of J&J can choose to receive Pfizer or Moderna for a third or booster dose.
Adults 70 years of age and older, eligible immunocompromised individuals, residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes or older adults in other congregate living setting will receive a full dose of Moderna (100 mcg) for a third or booster dose.
Individuals less than 70 years of age will receive a half dose of Moderna (50 mcg) for a booster dose.
Individuals receiving Pfizer for a third or booster dose will receive a full dose (30 mcg).
18 to 29 year olds
The Ontario government recommends the use of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for individuals aged 18 to 29 years old based on the current available analysis from Ontario’s adverse events following immunization (AEFI) surveillance system due to an observed increase in Ontario of the very rare heart condition pericarditis/myocarditis following vaccination with Moderna compared to Pfizer in this age group, particularly among males.
The majority of reported cases of myocarditis/pericarditis have been mild with individuals recovering quickly, usually with anti-inflammatory medication. Symptoms have typically been reported to start within one week after vaccination, more commonly after the second dose.
Should individuals aged 18 to 29-year old wish to receive Moderna they can continue to do so with informed consent.
5 to 17 year olds
The Pfizer vaccine will be used for youth ages 5 to 17.
Are the vaccines free?
The vaccines are free. You will not be asked for any financial information.
Will the vaccine interfere with my medications or other substances I use?
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) in Canada notes that no drug interaction studies have been performed to date, so we do not know if there could be interference with medications or substances such as drugs or alcohol.
Can people who use substances or have substance use disorders get a COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine regardless of past or current drug use. It is important that you are not under the influence of alcohol or any substances at your vaccine appointment. This is because substance use can impact your ability to give informed consent and lessen your ability to understand the risks and benefits of the vaccine.
Is it OK to eat or drink before getting the vaccine?
Yes, continue to eat your meals and stay hydrated as usual. Make sure you have something to eat before coming to the clinic to prevent feeling faint while being vaccinated. This can be especially helpful for some individuals who have needle fears or a history of fainting with needles.
Will I be able to bring a family member with me?
Yes
How long will I have to wait in the clinic after receiving my COVID-19 vaccine?
You will have to wait in the clinic for a minimum of 15 minutes after getting the vaccine. You may need to stay longer if necessary.
Does Hamilton collect social or demographic data on people who get vaccinated?
People who attend a vaccination clinic will have the option to provide information about their race, ethnicity, income, household size, and language to help Hamilton Public Health Services and the Ministry of Health plan COVID-19 vaccinations for communities that are at-risk and disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Find the consent form and questions: https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/vaccine/SD_Data_Consent_Form.pdf
After vaccination
What happens if I develop symptoms after leaving the vaccine clinic?
Severe reactions are uncommon. If you need medical assistance, please seek medical attention. Call 911 if you need assistance immediately.
Signs of serious allergic reactions may include:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of face, throat or tongue
- hives (bumps on the skin that are itchy)
If these occur, a doctor should report them to Hamilton Public Health Services.
Other uncommon adverse reactions that should be reported to Hamilton Public Health Services include:
- rash
- swelling of arm that spreads to the next joint (elbow) or lasts 4 days or more
- pain that lasts 4 days or more
- fainting that causes injury
- swelling of the face or mouth
- very pale colour and serious drowsiness
- high fever (over 40°C)
- convulsions or seizures
- other serious symptoms (e.g., “pins and needles” or numbness lasting for over 24 hours).
Discuss any of the uncommon reactions with your family doctor. If you don’t have a family doctor, a walk-in clinic might be preferred. A doctor can diagnose these uncommon reactions.
Below are the ways you can submit the form for adverse reactions to public health:
- Fax the Vaccine program’s confidential fax line: 905-546-4841
- Upload to CityShare
- All file formats are accepted, but PDF AEFI report forms is preferred.
- Once the file is uploaded, the file will appear under “Uploaded Files”.
If you have any other inquiries and/or you are unable to submit the AEFI report through the two methods above, call 905-546-2424 ext. 7556.
Allow up to 15 business days for us to process your AEFI report. A public health nurse will contact you by phone to follow-up with you.
AEFI Reporting Form and AEFI fact sheet
Read more about adverse effects (PDF, 135 KB)
Do I need to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I was vaccinated outside of Ontario?
Refer to the provincial government recommendations for vaccines not authorized by Health Canada.
The government is continuing to review these guidelines.
If you are eligible for a third dose due to out of province vaccination, we recommend you register for an Ontario vaccine receipt before going to a clinic for a third dose (see instructions for how to register to get an Ontario vaccine receipt above).
If you book an appointment or walk-in to a public health clinic to receive a third dose before registering for an Ontario vaccine receipt, your vaccine documents will be checked at the vaccinate clinic. Pharmacies or other community led clinics may require registration for an Ontario vaccine receipt before they can provide a third dose.
More information
Who can I talk to if I have questions about the vaccine?
To ask a health care provider (doctor or nurse) additional questions about COVID-19 vaccines:
- Ask your health care provider
- Book an appointment with SHN to speak with a doctor online or by phone 416-438-2911 ext. 5738
- Book an appointment with Sick Kids Hospital to speak with a pediatric nurse about COVID-19 vaccines for youth
- Call Hamilton’s Vaccine Hotline (905) 974-9848, option 7.
- Read answers to frequently asked questions
- Date modified: