COVID-19 Guidance for Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes
Please see the COVID-19 Guidance Document for Long-Term Care Homes in Ontario to learn more about requirements for long-term care homes with respect to COVID-19. Changes to the document from previous versions are highlighted at the top.
Vaccination for those who work, volunteer or visit Long-Term Care Homes
The Minister’s Directive: Long-Term Care Home COVID-19 Immunization Policy was revoked effective March 14, 2022. Please contact the facility directly to determine the details of the facility’s vaccination policy and what is required for staff, volunteers, caregivers and other visitors.
Vaccination for Residents
On April 6, 2023, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health recommended high-risk individuals receive their next COVID-19 booster dose this spring, including individuals living in long-term care and retirement home, if it has been at least six months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection.
Individuals working in these facilities are ONLY recommended to receive a booster dose this spring if they have not received a booster dose since September 1, 2022 and it has been six months since confirmed COVID-19 infection.
This dose is recommended to strengthen protection, especially for who are considered high-risk. The vaccine is the safest way to enhance protection against serious disease, hospitalization and death.
Please contact the staff/management with any questions regarding the vaccination plans for each facility.
Vaccines will also be available in the community; visit TBDHU’s immunization clinic page for more information and options including community clinics.
For information on all COVID-19 vaccine doses, including eligibility and dose intervals, see the COVID-19 Vaccine Doses page.