Anyone born in 2009 can get their COVID-19 vaccine starting Wednesday

From Wednesday, anyone turning 12 in 2021 will be eligible for their COVID-19 vaccine.

Previously, the Pfizer vaccine was only available in Ontario to those who have already turned 12. However, the province announced Tuesday that anyone born in 2009 can get the shot.

In a release, the Ministry of Health said that it made the decision after monitoring data from Alberta and British Columbia, where Pfizer has been administered to residents born in 2009 for months with no risks identified."

From Aug. 18, these individuals can book an appointment through the Ontario booking portal or by contacting local pharmacies. Most Hamilton clinics are also offering walk-ins.

Maria Iqbal is a Hamilton-based reporter at The Spectator covering aging. Reach her via email: miqbal@thespec.com.