COVID-19

In Epekwitk / PEI, individuals who are at higher risk of more severe outcomes from COVID-19, such as hospitalizations, and who do not have any contraindications for the treatment, may be eligible for anti-viral prescriptions.

Eligible individuals who have been prescribed Paxlovid may be eligible for cost assistance under one of the Provincial Drug Programs below.

Catastrophic Drug Program
Family Health Benefit Drug Program
Financial Assistance Drug Program
Nursing Home Drug Program
Seniors' Drug Program

Individuals who are at high risk and meet testing criteria will be able to access a molecular test through their health care provider. Those without a primary care provider can contact 811 for help determining needs or register with the Virtual Health Care for Islanders without a primary Care Provider (MAPLE).

Molecular testing for travel or employment is not available.

COVID-19 rapid tests available at some community pharmacies and retail stores or for purchase online.

To be considered for Paxlovid, individuals must speak to their health care provider or a community pharmacist.

Anyone who received a COVID-19 vaccine in Epekwitk / PEI can access a copy of their immunization record online or request a copy. Immunization records include the date(s) of the COVID-19 vaccination(s) and the kind of vaccine(s) received.

PEI residents who received a COVID-19 vaccine outside PEI can have the information added to the PEI Immunization record at Public Health Nursing Office.

Past records are available for instant download, while recent records typically take 24-48 hours to process.

Individuals who did not provide a PEI Health Card number at the time of vaccination, or no longer have one, can request a copy of their record by contacting the COVID-19 Immunization Program via phone or email.

Individuals should report any serious side-effects or reactions (adverse events) after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if any serious side effects or symptoms that could be an allergic reaction are experienced after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.

Any serious side effects should be reported to a local Public Health Officer or Health Care Provider.

Public Health Offices:

• Alberton: 902-853-8601
• Charlottetown: 902-368-4530
• Kensington: 902-888-8160
• O'Leary: 902-859-8720
• Montague: 902-838-0762
• Souris: 902-687-7049
• Summerside: 902-888-8160
• Tignish: 902-882-7366
• Tyne Valley: 902-854-7259
• Wellington: 902-854-7259

The Chief Public Health Officer will review the report submitted and assess whether a medical exemption from further vaccines is issued.

A list of possible side-effects from the COVID-19 vaccine can be found online.

COVID-19 Immunization Clinics are available across Epekwitk / PEI. Appointments are available at Health PEI Community Clinics and partner pharmacies.
Please note that locations and hours are subject to change. Always check the website for up-to-date information.Currently appointments can be booked for individuals who are 6 months and older:

• Health PEI Clinics:
  • Offering appointments for primary series and booster doses for those 6 months and older
• Partner Pharmacies:
  • Offering appointments for primary series and booster doses for individuals 5 years of age and older

COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended for previously vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or severe COVID-19 disease as follows:

• Recommended for adults 65 years and older
• Recommended for residents and care providers in long-term care homes, as well as other congregate living and medical facility settings serving patients or older adults
• Recommended for ages 6 months or older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised (due wo an underlying condition or treatment)
• Must be at least three months after the last dose of vaccine
• Individuals who are pregnant
• See website for full details

Notes:

• Mammogram appointments: Lymph nodes sometimes become enlarged after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Additional clinical assessment by your health care provider following your mammogram may be required. Health PEI encourages people to attend breast screening. appointments but, for those who do not feel comfortable, mammograms can be rescheduled to six weeks after being vaccinated. PEI Breast Screening Program has additional information.

Information about the COVID-19 vaccines in Epekwitk / PEI. Includes:

• Getting the vaccine
• Immunization record
• Proof of vaccination
• Vaccine information for health care providers
• Vaccines for children