Ontario expects to open vaccine booking eligibility to 18+ starting May 24

Ontario says it expects to open vaccine booking eligibility to all residents 18 and older starting the week of May 24.

The province plans to send half its available COVID-19 vaccines to hot spots in the first two weeks of May, an increase from the current 25 per cent allocation for hot spots.

It follows a recommendation from the province’s science advisers to allocate shots based on transmission rate rather than age group.

Officials say Ontario will also lower the age eligibility for mass vaccination clinics to 55 and older starting Friday.

They expect to lower age eligibility throughout next month, with access for people 30 and older forecast to start on the week of May 17.

“With a stable and reliable supply of vaccines on the way, we will continue expanding access to the vaccine in communities across the province, especially those areas that continue to be hit hardest by COVID-19,” said Minister of Health Christine Elliott.

“The best vaccine remains the first one you’re offered, and I strongly encourage everyone to sign up as soon as it’s their turn.”

A reminder for the Group 1 and Group 2 of people who can’t work from home. The province provided these lists. Again, Group 1 scheduled for May 3rd while Group 2 should begin week of May 10th. @CHCHNews pic.twitter.com/0HtaIIogw8

— Nicole Martin (@nicolemartintv) April 29, 2021

The government also says it will allow those with high-risk health conditions to get vaccinated at mass sites starting on Monday.