COVID-19 Vaccine

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine uses a method called messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. The mRNA in the vaccine tells the body’s cells to make "spike proteins," similar to what is found on the COVID-19 virus. The immune system responds to the spike proteins by making antibodies, which will protect against COVID-19 infection in the future. These new antibodies will break down the COVID-19 spike proteins and get rid of them. The mRNA is broken down by the body shortly after injection and cannot affect the body’s DNA. mRNA vaccines are not live vaccines and cannot cause infection.

Two doses of the vaccine are required for full protection, given up to 16 weeks apart. The vaccine is given by injection into the muscle of the arm. 

Some people may experience side effects from the vaccine, but they will likely be moderate and resolve after a few days. Some of the symptoms are part of the body’s response to developing immunity to a virus.

Common side effects that have been reported in clinical trials for this vaccine include:

Very common ≥10% (more than 1 in 10 doses)

• pain at the injection site
• headache
• feeling tired
• muscle or joint pain
• fever or chills

Common 1%-10% (1 in 100 to 1 in 10 doses)

• redness & swelling at the injection site

Uncommon 1% (1 in 100 doses)

• enlarged lymph nodes

The vaccine is approved for people who are 12 years of age and older who do not have any contraindications.

Do not get a COVID-19 vaccine if you:

• Have a fever, are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, currently have COVID-19 or have been instructed to self-isolate.
• Have received any vaccine in the past 14 days.
• Have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine or have had a previous severe reaction to this vaccine.

Visit Health Canada’s vaccine webpage for a list of vaccine ingredients. 

The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine uses a method called messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. The mRNA in the vaccine tells the body’s cells to make "spike proteins," similar to what is found on the COVID-19 virus. The immune system responds to the spike proteins by making antibodies, which will protect against COVID-19 infection in the future. These new antibodies will break down the COVID-19 spike proteins and get rid of them. The mRNA is broken down by the body shortly after injection and cannot affect the body’s DNA. mRNA vaccines are not live vaccines and cannot cause infection.

Two doses of the vaccine are required for full protection, given up to 16 weeks apart. The vaccine is given by injection into the muscle of the arm. 

Health Canada reported that side effects that followed administration of the Moderna vaccine were mild or moderate and are common of many vaccines, including:

• pain at the site of injection
• body chills
• feeling tired
• feeling feverish

The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is approved for individuals over the age of 18 who do not have contraindications, including seniors.

Do not get a COVID-19 vaccine if you:

• Have a fever, are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, currently have COVID-19 or have been instructed to self-isolate.
• Have received any vaccine in the past 14 days.
• Have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine or have had a previous severe reaction to this vaccine.

Visit Health Canada’s vaccine webpage for a list of vaccine ingredients. 

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is a viral vector vaccine. The vaccine uses DNA from a virus (called an adenovirus) as a delivery system (viral vector). The adenovirus does not make humans sick. The vaccine containing the viral vector enters the body and then the vector virus produces the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The immune system responds to the spike proteins by making antibodies. These new antibodies will break down the spike proteins and get rid of them. The new antibodies will protect against COVID-19 infection in the future.

Viral vector technology has been used for over ten years to produce many of the vaccines approved in Canada.

The viral vector (adenovirus) has a tough protein coat that protects the DNA inside. Therefore, the AstraZeneca vaccine does not need to be kept frozen.

Two doses of the vaccine are given up to 16 weeks apart by injection into the muscle of the arm. After completing the two doses, it will take another 14 days to reach maximum protection against COVID-19.

Common side effects following administration of the AstraZeneca vaccine are typically mild or moderate and are common to many vaccines, including:

• pain at the site of injection
• body chills
• feeling tired
• feeling feverish

These are common side effects of vaccines and do not pose a risk to health. There is a chance that there will be a serious side effect, like an allergic reaction, but these are rare.

On May 11, 2021, the Government of Ontario paused the rollout and administration of first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, out of an abundance of caution due to an observed increase in the rare blood clotting condition, known as Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT), linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine.  

Individuals should seek medical attention if they develop the following symptoms 4 to 28 days after receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine:

• a persistent and severe headache
• a seizure
• difficulty moving part of your body
• blurred or double vision
• difficulty speaking
• shortness of breath
• chest, back, or abdominal pain
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• new reddish or purplish spots, or blood blisters
• swelling, pain, color or temperature change of an arm or a leg.

On May 21, 2021, the Government of Ontario announced that second dose administration of the AstraZeneca vaccine will continue. For a limited time during the week of May 24, individuals who received their first dose of AstraZeneca during the period of March 10, 2021 to March 19, 2021 may opt for an earlier dose interval of 10 weeks with informed consent. Waterloo Region Public Health did not offer the AstraZeneca vaccine during this time period.

The province will provide further guidance regarding second doses for people who received a first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine after March 20. When the time comes to receive a second dose, everyone who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine will receive either an AstraZeneca or mRNA vaccine for their second dose.

Visit Health Canada's website for more information on the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

The AstraZeneca vaccine has been approved by Health Canada for individuals over the age of 18 who do not have any contraindications.

Do not get a COVID-19 vaccine if you:

• Have a fever, are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, currently have COVID-19 or have been instructed to self-isolate.
• Have received any vaccine in the past 14 days
• Have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine or have had a previous severe reaction to this vaccine
• Visit Health Canada’s vaccine webpage for a list of vaccine ingredients
  

• Have experienced major venous and/or arterial thrombosis with thrombocytopenia following vaccination with any vaccine
• Have experienced a previous cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) with thrombocytopenia or who have experienced heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)

The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine is a viral vector vaccine. The vaccine uses DNA from a virus (called an adenovirus) as a delivery system (viral vector). The adenovirus does not make humans sick. The vaccine containing the viral vector enters the body and then the vector virus produces the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The immune system responds to the spike proteins by making antibodies. These new antibodies will break down the spike proteins and get rid of them. The new antibodies will protect against COVID-19 infection in the future.

Viral vector technology has been used for over ten years to produce many of the vaccines approved in Canada.

The viral vector (adenovirus) has a tough protein coat that protects the DNA inside. Therefore, the AstraZeneca vaccine does not need to be kept frozen.

A single dose of the vaccine is given by injection into the muscle of the arm. It may take another 14 days to reach maximum protection against COVID-19 after vaccination.

Common side effects following administration of the Janssen vaccine are typically mild or moderate and are common of many vaccines, including:

• pain at the site of injection
• body chills
• feeling tired
• feeling feverish

These are common side effects of vaccines and do not pose a risk to health. As with all vaccines, there is a chance that there will be a serious side effect, like an allergic reaction, but these are rare. 

Cases of a rare blood clotting condition, known as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), have been reported following the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Individuals should seek medical attention if they develop the following symptoms 4 to 28 days after receiving the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine:

• a persistent and severe headache
• a seizure
• difficulty moving part of your body
• blurred or double vision
• difficulty speaking
• shortness of breath
• chest, back, or abdominal pain
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• new reddish or purplish spots, or blood blisters
• swelling, pain, color or temperature change of an arm or a leg

Visit Health Canada's website for more information on the safety of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. 

The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine is approved for use in people 18 years of age and over who do not have any contraindications.

Do not get a COVID-19 vaccine if you:

• Have a fever, are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, currently have COVID-19 or have been instructed to self-isolate
• Have received any vaccine in the past 14 days
• Have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine or have had a previous severe reaction to this vaccine
• Visit Health Canada’s vaccine webpage for a list of vaccine ingredients.

• Have experienced major venous and/or arterial thrombosis with thrombocytopenia following vaccination with any vaccine
• Have experienced a previous cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) with thrombocytopenia or who have experienced heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that if a risk assessment with a health care provider deems that the benefits outweigh the potential risks, and if informed consent includes discussion about the absence of evidence on the use of COVID-19 vaccine then a complete series of COVID-19 vaccine may be offered to individuals who are pregnant or breast/chestfeeding. 

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that if a risk assessment with a health care provider deems that the benefits outweigh the potential risks, and if informed consent includes discussion about the absence of evidence on the use of COVID-19 vaccine then a complete series of COVID-19 vaccine may be offered to individuals who are immunosuppressed due to disease or treatment or suffering from an autoimmune disorder.

Individuals who have had a severe allergic reaction or a suspected allergic reaction within 4 hours of receiving a previous dose of COVID-19 vaccine should be referred to an allergist/immunologist for consultation and to discuss options for future vaccinations.

If this applies to you, you will not be able to receive COVID-19 vaccination at a mass immunization clinic. Please contact 519-575-4400 to cancel your scheduled appointment.

I have had an allergic reaction within 4 hours and/or anaphylaxis that occurred with a different vaccine or injectable medication that does not contain a component of COVID-19 vaccine.

Please contact your treating health care provider to have a discussion about COVID-19 vaccination. Your health care provider may refer you to an allergist/immunologist for consultation. After this consultation you may decide:

• To receive the vaccine. At your appointment, you will be asked for documentation from your health care provider indicating that it is safe to receive the vaccine and if any specific conditions apply. You will be asked to wait 30 minutes after vaccination to monitor for adverse effects
• Not to receive the vaccine. Please contact 519-575-4400 to cancel your scheduled appointment.

I have had an allergic reaction to a food, drug, venom, latex or other allergen not related to COVID-19 vaccine OR I have allergic rhinitis (e.g. seasonal allergies), asthma or eczema.

You may receive COVID-19 vaccination if your condition/treatment is under control and you are able to receive injections or have blood work. 

After immunization, you will be asked to apply firm pressure to the injection site for 5-10 minutes.

If you are not able to receive injections or have blood work, please contact 519-575-4400 to cancel your scheduled appointment and consult with your health care provider about options for vaccination.

Phase 1

Pre-registration is available for all Phase 1 groups:

• Adult recipients of chronic home care
• Adults 80 years of age and older, born in 1941 or earlier
• Health care workers (All categories)
• Indigenous adults (Includes individuals and elders regardless of status or Indigenous identity and any adults 18 years of age and older, living in their immediate household.)
• Long-term care and retirement homes staff 
• Long-term care and retirement homes essential caregivers
• Seniors group settings staff and residents
• Seniors group setting essential caregivers

Phase 2

• Adults 50 years of age and older, born in 1971 or earlier
• Adults 18 years of age and older, born in 2003 or earlier, who live in the following high-priority neighbourhoods in Waterloo Region: Vanier/Rockway, Country Hills, Alpine/Laurentian, Victoria Hills/Cherry Hill, Shades Mills, Columbia/Lakeshore. View the map of high-priority neighbourhoods in Waterloo Region

• Adults 18 years of age and older, born in 2003 or earlier, with highest-risk, high-risk and at-risk health conditions
• Individuals 12-17 years of age living in congregate care or developmental service settings or with highest, high-risk or at-risk health conditions (must be vaccinated with Pfizer at this time) 
  • Highest-risk health conditions: 
    • Pregnant individuals (Please see further details on the National Advisory Committee on Immunization website.)
    • Organ transplant recipients
    • Hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
    • People with neurological diseases in which respiratory function may be compromised (e.g. motor neuron disease, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis)
    • Haematological malignancy diagnosed less than one year ago
    • Kidney disease (eGFR less than 30
  • High-risk health conditions:
    • Obesity (Body Mass Index >40)
    • Other treatments causing immunosuppression (e.g. chemotherapy, immunity-weakening medications)
    • Intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g. Down Syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy)
  • At-risk health conditions:
    • Immune deficiencies / autoimmune disorders
    • Stroke / cerebrovascular disease
    • Dementia
    • Diabetes
    • Liver disease
    • All other cancers
    • Respiratory diseases
    • Spleen problems (e.g., asplenia)
    • Heart disease
    • Hypertension with end organ damage
    • Diagnosis of mental disorder
    • Substance use disorder
    • Sickle cell disease
    • Thalassemia
    • Immunocompromising health conditions
    • Other disabilities requiring direct support care in the community
• One essential caregiver for an adult or child with a highest-risk or high-risk health condition who requires support for daily living
• Faith Leaders who are in close contact with persons and families in the following circumstances:
  • End-of-life care
  • Care of the deceased, funerals, bathing, or other ceremony with direct contact with deceased persons
  • Home visits to unwell persons
  • Pastoral care in hospitals, long-term care, retirement homes, or other vulnerable settings
• Residents and frontline staff in the following high-risk settings (many of the following groups will be booked directly into mobile clinics):
  • Supportive housing
  • Developmental services, including supported independent living
  • Emergency homeless shelters
  • Other homeless populations not in shelters
  • Mental health and addictions congregate settings, incl. supportive housing
  • Homes for special care
  • Employer-provided housing for farm workers, incl. temporary foreign workers
  • Adult correctional facilities
  • Violence Against Women shelters
  • Anti-Human Trafficking residences
  • Children’s residential facilities, including group homes and foster homes
  • Indigenous healing and wellness
  • Youth justice facilities
  • Bail bed
• One essential caregiver for residents in the following high-risk congregate settings:
  • Developmental services, including supported independent living
  • Mental health and addictions congregate settings, including supportive housing
  • Homes for special care
  • Children’s residential facilities, including group homes and foster homes
  • Indigenous healing and wellness
• Essential workers who cannot work from home (Group 1)
  • Elementary and secondary school workers (including educators, custodial, school bus drivers, administrative staff)
  • Workers responding to critical events (including police, fire, special constables, children’s aid society workers, emergency management, critical infrastructure restoration workers)
  • Enforcement, inspection and compliance roles (including by-law enforcement, building inspectors, food inspectors, animal welfare inspectors, border inspection officers, labour inspectors, WSIB field workers)
  • Individuals working in childcare (including all licensees, employees and students on educational placements who interact directly with children in licensed childcare centres and in authorized recreation and skill building programs, licensed home child care and in-home service providers, employees of home child care agencies and students on education placement)
  • Foster care agenda workers (including customary care providers)
  • Food manufacturing and distribution workers
  • Agriculture and farm workers
  • Funeral, crematorium and cemetery workers
• Essential workers who cannot work from home (Group 2):
  • Essential and critical retail workers, including grocery, foodbank and non-clinical pharmacy workers, ServiceOntario workers, ServiceCanada and Passport Canada workers, wholesalers and general goods, restaurant and LCBO workers
  • Workers in manufacturing industries directly involved in supporting the COVID-19 response, construction including infrastructure, and other essential businesses and services where facilities are at heightened risk for COVID-19 outbreaks and spread
  • Social workers and other social services staff providing in-person client services, including youth justice workers, OntarioWorks and Ontario Disability Support Program case workers
  • Courts and justice system workers, including probation and parole workers
  • Transportation, warehousing and distribution workers, including public transit workers, truck drivers supporting essential services, marine and rail cargo and maintenance, and highway maintenance
  • Electricity, including workers employed in systems operations, generation, transmission, distribution and storage
  • Communications infrastructure workers, including cellular, satellite, landline, internet and public safety radio
  • Water and wastewater management workers
  • Financial services workers (bank branch staff)
  • Veterinarians and veterinary teams
  • Waste management workers
  • Oil and petroleum workers, including those working in petroleum refineries; those involved in the storage, transmission and distribution of crude oil and petroleum products; and those needed for the retail sale of fuel
  • Natural gas and propane gas workers, including those working in the compression, storage, transmission and distribution of natural gas and propane
  • Mine workers, including those needed to ensure the continued operation of active mines
  • Uranium processing workers (those working in the refining and conversion of uranium, and fabrication of fuel for nuclear power plants

Visit the Province’s website for more details about Phase 2 in Ontario. 

• Remaining Ontarians ages 12 and older who wish to be vaccinated

Visit the Province’s website for more details about Phase 3 in Ontario.