Ontario Just Expanded The Age Groups That Can Book A Vaccine Starting On Monday

The province announced on Friday that Ontario's vaccine rollout will now expand the age group that can book their appointments online. 

As of Monday, March 22, Ontarians aged 75 and older will be able to get their first shot, now that over 50% of residents 80 and older have received theirs. 

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Also starting on Monday, the province is making the AstraZeneca vaccine available to residents 60 and older at pharmacies and primary care settings.

Residents in this age group can book their appointments directly by contacting Ontario's participating pharmacies. 

Another 350 pharmacies will be added to this list in the next two weeks, bringing the total to 700 across the province, according to today's statement.

What is Ontario's vaccine rollout timeline? 

Ontario is now in the final leg of Phase 1 of its vaccine rollout, which prioritizes high-risk populations, like long-term care residents and health care workers. 

Phase 2 is set to take place from April to July and aims to serve 9 million Ontarians.

It will deliver vaccines to adults 60 and older, essential workers in many industries, residents of congregate settings like shelters, and several other groups.

Phase 3 will take place from July onwards and will administer doses to all residents 59 or younger. 

However, with the increased supply of four different vaccine varieties, Ontario's vaccine task force hopes to make doses available to everyone eligible by June 20.