ABOUT THE COVID VACCINES
- Pfizer-Biontech and Moderna mRNA vaccines -
Both of these vaccinations are based on mRNA technology, are highly effective and safe.
Visit City of Toronto COVID: About the Vaccines for more information.
- AstraZeneca Vaccine -
The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for use in Canada for adults 18 years of age and over. Health Canada has determined that it is a safe and effective vaccine.
There has been hesitancy from patients to get the AstraZeneca vaccine in light of a rare but serious condition being referred to as Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT). It occurs in anywhere from 1 in every 125,000 to 1 in 1 million people.
The Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table has developed a Questions and &Answers Summary to address these concerns.
- COVID Vaccines and Pregnancy -
Pregnancy is a risk factor for complications from COVID-19, therefore vaccination is highly recommended.
As of April 23, pregnant patients in Ontario are now eligible for vaccination at any of the mass vaccination clinics as part of the highest priority risk category.
CLICK HERE for a video message from Ontario’s Obstetricians explaining why it is critical for pregnant patients to get the COVID19 Vaccine (available in multiple languages).
NEW OFFICE PROCEDURES
With the changes surrounding COVID-19, our clinic is taking the following steps to ensure continuity of care while keeping the health and safety of all in mind:
1. All patients should call ahead to book an appointment.
2. All visits will be triaged over the phone
- this will determine if your medical issue can be managed virtually (ie. by telephone or video conference) or whether an in-office visit is needed
3. Absolutely NO walk-in visits will be accepted.
4. All non-urgent bookings such as routine physical examinations will not be booked.
5. The following visits WILL continue to be booked:
- Well baby visits (0-4 years old) including vaccinations
- Obstetrical visits
- Cancer screening tests (eg. pap smears)
6. If you have an in-office appointment:
- When you arrive at the building, please call 416-785-8412; you will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms
- When the doctor is ready to see you, our staff will call you to come up to the office; the front entrance to the building is locked, please press #303 for staff to unlock the door
- Proceed up to the office (3rd floor) and buzz to be let into the office door
- ALL PATIENTS OVER 2 YEARS OLD MUST WEAR A MASK (CLOTH OR DISPOSABLE) AT ALL TIMES IN THE BUILDING
7. Please note that we do not provide COVID19 testing at our clinic.
- If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID19, please go to your nearest Assessment Centre.
STAYING SAFE DURING THE PANDEMIC
- Practice social distancing
- Wear a mask in situations where distance cannot be maintained.
- Wash your hands regularly
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve
- Do not share food, drinks, toothbrushes, etc.
If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms that may suggest COVID-19
Proceed to one of the COVID Assessment Centres.
Please note that our office does not perform COVID-19 testing.
If you have more severe symptoms (such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain)
• Contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or your local public health unit
• If you are in need of IMMEDIATE medical attention, call 911 or go to your local emergency room
If you have traveled outside Canada but do NOT have symptoms
• you are at risk of being a carrier of COVID-19 and passing it on to others
• you should stay in Quarantine for 14-days after your return to Canada;
• Click for more information for Returning Travelers
• If you have no symptoms after 14 days, you can resume your normal daily activities