COVID-19 Vaccine

Appointments will be available for COVID-19 vaccines pending vaccine supply and further guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health.

Check back this Fall for update COVID-19 vaccine and appointments Information.

Appointments will be available for COVID-19 vaccines pending vaccine supply and further guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health.

Check back this Fall for update COVID-19 vaccine and appointments Information.

How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?

Vaccines teach your immune system how to protect you from diseases. It's much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and attempting to treat them.

mRNA technology has been studied for more than 10 years, most often in cancer research and treatment as well as in the development of new vaccines against such infections as pandemic influenza and rabies.  Shortly after COVID-19 was identified scientists were able to map the genes that make up the COVID-19 virus. Once the structure of the genes was known, especially of the spike protein that allows that virus to fuse with and enter our cells, scientists were able to quickly create the vaccine and start the clinical trials that have resulted in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines that have been approved for use by Health Canada.

Below is an explanation of how the Pfizer-BioNtech and Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines work with your body’s immune response to fight off the COVID-19 virus.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines tell your body to make "spike proteins" (these cover the outside of the virus and allow it to attach to and enter our cells) specific to virus that causes COVID-19.

• Your immune system responds to spike proteins by making antibodies that bind to and block the spike protein on the virus’s surface. This is important for protection from disease because the spike protein is what attaches to human cells, allowing the virus to enter. Blocking this entrance prevents infection.
• Your new antibodies will attack the spike proteins
• Your new antibodies and immune cells will protect you from illness if you are exposed to COVID-19 virus in the future by remembering how to attack the spike protein

What is a COVID-19 XBB.1.5 Vaccine

• On Sept 22, 2023 the Moderna XBB.1.5. vaccine was approved by Health Canada, and on Sept 28, 2023 the Pfizer XBB.1.5 was approved by Health Canada.
• These vaccines are a monovalent strain, which means they include the strain Omicron XBB.1.5
• This is a different strain from the Omicron that was included in the bivalent vaccine.

What is the difference between a COVID-19 monovalent and bivalent vaccine?

• As of Fall 2023 the recommended COVID-19 vaccine is the monovalent XBB.1.5 vaccine.
• Bivalent vaccine will remain available throughout the Fall of 2023 for those that are unable to receive the currently recommended monovalent XBB.1.5 vaccine.  Bivalent vaccine was better matched to the circulating sub-variants in Fall and Winter of 2022-2023.
• Both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 monavalent and bivalent vaccines are a mRNA vaccine approved by Health Canada as safe and effective. 
• Monovalent means that the vaccine contains a single strain of COVID-19.  For the Fall of 2023 this means that it is XBB.1.5.  Bivalent means that the vaccine contains two strains of COVID-19 – the original strain and Omicron (BA.1).
• Over time, protection from vaccination decreases and circulating variants of the COVID-19 virus may change. Seasonal doses are targeted to address circulating strains of the virus and help to increase your protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Will the mRNA vaccines interact with DNA?

mRNA cannot change your DNA. DNA is contained in the nucleus of our cells. mRNA cannot get into the nucleus or interact with our DNA. mRNA  means ‘messenger RNA’

mRNA is a part of our genetic material that gives instructions to the body, like a recipe. It simply delivers a message.

• For COVID-19, the mRNA vaccine tells the body to make a harmless “spike protein”. This spike protein is found on the outside of the COVID-19 virus (but is not the virus itself). Our immune system recognizes the spike protein as something that shouldn’t be there and quickly works to attack it by building antibodies and immune cells that will attack the COVID virus if you are exposed in the future.

Human cells break down and get rid of the mRNA soon after they have finished using the instructions. mRNA does not interact with the part of our cells that holds our DNA and cannot be ‘swapped out’ or change the DNA sequence.

Can I get other vaccines at the same time or after my COVID-19 vaccine?

You do not need to wait a certain number of days before or after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine to get another vaccine.

Watch video about getting COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines (Black Physicians' Association of Ontario, October 2021)

If I get the vaccine, how long will it protect me?

We do not yet know how long COVID-19 vaccine protection lasts. Research into this question continues to emerge. As additional information becomes available this section will be updated. For Fall 2023 new recommendation is to have 1 dose of the XBB.1.5. COVID-19 vaccine regardless of previous COVID-19 vaccine history. If you have been previously vaccinated it is recommended there is 6 months between your last dose and an XBB.1.5 vaccination. For children under the age of 5, a 2 or 3 dose series (dependent on brand) is recommended if they have never received a COVID-19 vaccination in the past.

Can I get COVID-19 after being vaccinated?

COVID-19 infections may occur among fully-vaccinated individuals, however people who are up to date on their vaccines are more likely to have stronger protection against COVID-19 and COVID-19 variants and sub-variants.

The main goal of vaccination is to prevent serious outcomes from occurring. COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death

Your risk of getting COVID-19 and becoming seriously ill or dying is significantly higher if you are not vaccinated, than if you are vaccinated. Being up-to-date with recommended vaccinations is the best way to protect yourself.

I’ve already had COVID-19. Should I still get vaccinated?

Yes. You should still consider getting vaccinated. We do not know the length of immune response in those who have had a COVID-19 infection. When you get the COVID-19 vaccine, it can help protect you against serious outcomes that can occur as a result of getting infected with the COVID-19 virus.

If I had COVID-19, how long should I wait before getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

It is recommended that you wait 6 months between a COVID-19 infection and receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.

If there are effective treatments for COVID-19, why do we need a vaccine?

It is always better to prevent an infection and severe outcomes of an illness, rather than treating it. A vaccine can help stop you from getting very ill, decrease the severity of the disease and slow its spread in the community.

Vaccinations may also reduce the likelihood of developing Long-COVID (a condition where physical and mental health symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression persist for weeks or months after having COVID-19).

There are treatments available for COVID-19 infection. 

Some people who are at higher risk of more serious illness will benefit from closer monitoring from their doctor or primary care clinic. Please consider reaching out to your care provider to discuss treatment options before you have an infection.  If you are at high risk for severe outcomes and become symptomatic, do not delay seeking care. Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

How do I decide if vaccination is right for me and my family?

Get informed and make your decisions based on evidence and what makes sense for your family.

Vaccination is a personal choice that is important for prevention of serious disease. Public Health recommends that everyone who is eligible gets their recommended vaccinations. Take the time to read and understand the vaccine information on this page and from other reliable sources.  Follow-up by asking questions and reaching out to trusted medical experts like your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or health care provider.

To ask a health care provider (doctor or nurse) additional questions about COVID-19 vaccines:

• Book an appointment with VaxFax to speak with a doctor online or by phone 416-438-2911 ext. 5738

Why should you get vaccinated?

Vaccination can protect you against serious outcomes from a COVID-19 infection, including hospitalization and death. Vaccination, especially within the first few months following the vaccine, also decreases your risk of getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others who might be at higher risk of illness, even if you don’t have symptoms. While some populations such as children and youth typically experience mild symptoms, others can get very sick, require hospitalization and experience more serious and longer-lasting symptoms. In very rare cases, the virus can also cause death.

How many people have been vaccinated in Hamilton?

Find out how many people have been vaccinated in Hamilton

Development and approval of the vaccine felt rushed. Is the vaccine safe?

There is a misconception that vaccine research must take a long time. While creating a new vaccine can sometimes take years, the progress on COVID-19 vaccines is happening quickly for many reasons, including:

• advances in science and technology
• international collaboration among scientists, health professionals, researchers, industry and governments
• increased dedicated funding

For any vaccine to reach the general public it must pass careful evaluation by Health Canada and will have to pass safety standards for all age groups it is approved for. What made this vaccine approval feel faster in comparison to other vaccines is the result of a shared effort by researchers and scientists in every part of the world who combined new processes for review and evaluation of clinical trial data in addition to increased funding for vaccine research.

No corners were cut while creating the vaccines. One minor change to the usual process was put in place: clinical trials were run at the same time as the vaccines were being made/manufactured; that way, vaccines could be shipped out to different countries as soon as the vaccines were approved by the different countries’ health authorities.

• A list of COVID-19 vaccines approved by Health Canada
• Additional information about COVID-19 vaccines from the National advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI)

What is in the COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines do not contain eggs, gelatin (pork), beef, fetal products, gluten, latex, antibiotics, mercury, formaldehyde, thimerosal or aluminum. There are no ingredients that would be restricted for dietary or religious reasons.

The complete list of ingredients for each vaccine can be found at:

• Moderna Spikevax XBB.1.5
• Pfizer Comirnaty Omicron XBB.1.5

What are the potential side effects of the vaccine?

After being vaccinated, it's common to have mild side effects. This is the body's natural response, as it's working hard to build immunity against the disease. This is known as the inflammatory response or reaction.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine safety and side effects

If you have questions about possible side effects, reach out your health care provider (doctor, nurse or pharmacist).

In rare cases, serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur. Allergic reactions can be treated and are usually temporary. Seek medical attention if you have trouble breathing, have hives or swelling of the face and throat.

Vaccine side effects will continue to be monitored as people receive the vaccine. If you get a reaction to the vaccine, contact your health care provider who will report the side effect directly to public health. Public health will keep track of the reported side effects. See below for reporting side effects.

Could the vaccine side effects be worse than getting COVID-19?

As with all vaccines, there’s a very small chance that there will be a serious side effect. However, the benefits of vaccination outweigh their risks. It is more likely to have a serious outcome as a result of getting COVID-19 than from getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

Where can I find information on the long-term effects of the vaccine?

As part of the vaccine safety program in Canada, ongoing monitoring of the COVID-19 vaccines will continue. Very careful tracking of side effects for those who are vaccinated is carried out at local, provincial and national levels. There is also longer-term follow-up of clinical trial participants. Health Canada posts weekly reports on vaccine safety.

Do mRNA vaccines cause pericarditis and/or myocarditis?

Rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis have been reported after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) in Canada and internationally

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine safety and side effects: Myocarditis and pericarditis

The benefits of COVID-19 vaccines continue to outweigh their potential risks, as scientific evidence shows that they reduce deaths and hospitalizations due to COVID-19. The Government of Canada encourages people to get vaccinated and to complete their recommended vaccine series as soon as they are eligible.

Video: Watch Dr. Ainsworth (Hamilton Health Sciences) speak about myocarditis and vaccines

Can I get the COVID-19 virus from the vaccine?

The vaccines will not give you a COVID-19 infection. None of the approved vaccines contains a live version of the COVID-19 virus. Instead all the vaccines either deliver, or cause our bodies to make, harmless spike proteins only found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus and teaches your body how to spot and respond to this protein so when the real virus comes along, the body can fight it off.

How do I report an adverse reaction to the vaccine?

Severe reactions are uncommon but if you need immediate medical assistance, call 911.

View our fact sheet for a list of common, expected side effects and uncommon side effects that may need to be reported as adverse reactions

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 and report them to public health. If you do not have access to a doctor, please call Hamilton Public Health Services Vaccine program at 905-540-5250 to report symptoms.

I have a health condition. How can I be sure the vaccine is safe?

Some individuals may consider themselves more vulnerable to side effects or negative effects from the vaccine. Speak with your doctor or health care provider about any questions or concerns you have about COVID-19 vaccines.

Can people who have autoimmune disorders or are immunocompromised get the vaccines?

The following are recommendations from the Ontario Ministry of Health: COVID-19 Vaccine Administration

It is recommended that all moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals receive a fall dose of the XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine. These individuals are encouraged to speak with their treating health care provider regarding the timing of vaccination in relation to therapy for their underlying health condition and/or treatment modification in view of possible decreased vaccine effectiveness with the use of immunosuppressive therapy. See the COVID-19 Vaccine: Canadian Immunization Guide’s section on immunocompromised persons.

It is recommended that re-vaccination with a new COVID-19 vaccine series be initiated post-transplantation for hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), hematopoietic cell transplants (HCT) (autologous or allogeneic), and recipients of CAR-T-cell therapy given the loss of immunity following therapy or transplant. Optimal timing for re-immunization should be determined on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the clinical team. For additional information on organ transplantation, consult the Canadian Society of Transplantation statement on COVID-19 vaccination.

• For additional information on rheumatology, consult the Canadian Rheumatology Association statement on COVID-19 vaccination.
• For additional information on inflammatory bowel disease, consult the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology statement on COVID-19 vaccination.
• For additional information on immunodeficiency conditions consult the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
• For frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccine and adult cancer patients, consult Cancer Care Ontario.

Can people who have allergies get the vaccines?

This information is from the Ontario Ministry of Health: COVID-19 Vaccination Administration

Individuals with known allergies to components of the vaccines may speak with an appropriate physician or Nurse Practitioner for evaluation. This assessment will enable the development of a vaccination care plan which may include receiving the vaccine under the supervision of your physician.

Documentation of the discussion with the physician/NP may be provided to the clinic and can include a vaccination care plan (including what types of parameters the clinic should meet to provide safe vaccination administration, such as availability of advanced medical care to manage anaphylaxis), details/severity of the previous allergic episode(s), confirm that appropriate counselling on the safe administration of vaccine was provided, and include the date, the clinician’s name, signature and contact information as well as the individual’s name and date of birth.

Have COVID-19 vaccines been linked to infertility or miscarriage?

COVID-19 vaccines do not cause male or female infertility. There is no scientific reason that the COVID-19 vaccines would impact fertility for those people trying to get pregnant. No loss of fertility has been reported among trial participants or among the millions who have received the vaccines to date, and no signs of infertility appeared in animal studies. Recent research showed that there were no differences in the numbers of conceptions in the vaccine trials between participants who got the vaccine and those who got the placebo. Studies show that pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalized when they have COVID-19, but they are not more likely to miscarry.

If you are considering or undergoing IVF or fertility treatments, speak with your health care provider about vaccination.  (Source: https://sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=pregnancy-breastfeeding-fertility-covid-19-vaccine).

Sources:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) 
• Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada
• Questions and answers about vaccination during pregnancy

Can people who are pregnant or breastfeeding get vaccinated?

You can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine before becoming pregnant or in any trimester of pregnancy. COVID-19 vaccines are also safe if you are or, plan to begin, breastfeeding. More information can be found on the Ministry COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy webpage.

For additional information on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy:

• Video from Ontario health care providers (English, French, Arabic, Cantonese, Farsi, Mandarin, Spanish, Tamil, Vietnamese, Yoruba)
• Information on the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy (Prenatal Screening Ontario)
• Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada
• Drs Packer and Costescu (HHS): Getting vaccinated while pregnant
• Questions and Answers on Fertility, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding (City of Hamilton, Fall 2021)
• Ontario Ministry of Health vaccination during pregnancy

Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine while I am menstruating (having my period)? Will it affect my cycle?

People who menstruate (get a period) do not need to schedule their COVID-19 vaccine around their menstrual cycle. There are no issues with getting the vaccine during your period.

Delaying your vaccine around your cycle may leave you unprotected from COVID-19 for a longer time without providing any known benefit.

Menstruation can be influenced by many things, such as environmental changes, stress, sleep and some medications. When your immune system is working hard because you’re vaccinated or sick, you may experience changes in how the lining (endometrium) of the uterus responds so it is possible to see some changes in menstruation.

Researchers are confident that the vaccine is safe, and that there is not enough data to suggest that there should be concerns over potential changes to the menstrual cycle.

The good news is that any changes you experience in your menstrual cycle after getting the vaccine are temporary, so it shouldn’t be a reason not to get a shot. However, people with concerns should speak with their doctor since cycles can be delayed for other reasons as well.

Source: Immunize BC

Vaccine Information Videos

• Vaccine Q & A in English and Spanish (Mexicanas en Hamilton and Dr. Tammy Packer)
• Vaccine Q & A (English, South Asian)
• Vaccine Q & A (Arabic, Rami Safi, Pharmacist)
• Should I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I’m pregnant? (English, French, Arabic, Cantonese, Farsi, Mandarin, Spanish, Tamil, Vietnamese, Yoruba)
• Ottawa Public Health COVID-19 vaccine video (American Sign Language)
• Healthcare workers: why we got the vaccine
• To book an appointment to speak to a physician about vaccination please visit: https://www.shn.ca/vaxfacts/. Telephone consultations with doctors are available in more than 200 languages.

I had my first vaccine outside of Ontario. How can get my next dose?

Regardless of where you received your last vaccine, you are encouraged to receive a fall 2023 XBB.1.5 vaccine 6 months after your last vaccination.

When can I get my next dose of COVID-19 vaccine?

It is recommended that you receive a dose of the XBB.1.5 vaccination if it has been 6 months since your last COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 infection.

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.
• Wear a loose-fitting shirt with sleeves that roll up. 

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:

Are the vaccines free?

The COVID-19 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.

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.

You can submit the form for adverse reactions to public health by fax to the Vaccine program’s confidential fax line: 905-546-4841.

If you have any other inquiries and/or you are unable to submit the AEFI report through the two methods above, call 905-540-5250.

Allow up to 5 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 COVID-19 Vaccine adverse effects

Do I need to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I was vaccinated outside of Ontario?

Regardless of your past COVID-19 vaccination history, it is recommended that you receive a fall dose of the XBB.1.5 vaccine 6 months from your last COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 infection.

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), complete the COVID-19 Immunization submission form(PDF, 248.32 KB). 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:

1. Fax 905-546-4841
    
2. 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
    
3. 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

How to update your Ontario COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate to your chosen name?

What to do if you have no ID

If you have no ID, please work with your community organizations, school or medical provider to verify your identity. You may submit these alternative IDs to the health unit for processing. The Vaccine Records department will contact you if additional details are required.

After you’ve updated your vaccine certificate with your chosen name

If you are travelling outside of Canada but haven’t updated your passport with your Chosen Name, you will need to travel under your old IDs. Please call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre (PVCC) and ask them to switch back your vaccine certificate to your former name or name on your Ontario health card. You can then download the vaccine certificate in your former name. If you would like to switch back to your Chosen Name upon your return to Canada, please call the PVCC again to switch your vaccine certificate back to your chosen name.

When talking to vaccine providers, clinics, public health units, or the PVCC, let them know that you have updated your proof of vaccine credential to your chosen name.

Need help or have questions?

Call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre (PVCC) at 1-833-943-3900 (TTY for people who are deaf, hearing-impaired or speech-impaired: 1-866-797-0007). Available in over 300 languages, 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days a week (holidays excluded).