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People with kidney failure, either on dialysis or with a transplant, have had a disproportionately high rate of hospitalization for COVID-19.  In fact, research suggests that the impact on dialysis patients is as high as those who live in long-term care. 

Since the beginning of January, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Ontario Branch has been advocating to ensure that dialysis and transplant patients have early access to the COVID-19 vaccine.  We have been voicing the needs of our community to the Minister of Health, the Deputy Minister of Health, members of the Vaccine Distribution Task Force, and the Medical Officers of Health associated with local Public Health Units.  We have also communicated our concerns regarding the urgency to make the vaccine available to patients as quickly as possible to every MPP from all parties.  Similar efforts were made by the Ontario Renal Network, the Canadian Society of Nephrology, and the Canadian Society of Transplantation. 

On March 5, 2021 the Provincial Government moved transplant and dialysis patients to the front of the line in Phase 2 of the distribution strategy. Kidney transplant and dialysis patients are both identified as high risk and we continue to monitor this as Public Health begins the phase 2 rollout. 
 
We are now embarking on a similar effort to ensure that decision makers understand the importance of reducing the time between vaccine doses from 4 months to the recommended protocol established by the manufacturer for dialysis patients. Earlier this week, The Ontario Government confirmed that they have revised the second vaccine timeline for transplant patients.

The Ontario Renal Network has developed an FAQ to answer some of your most pressing questions.
 

Should I get vaccinated against COVID-19?

Although more research is needed to know how well the vaccine works for people with chronic kidney disease, it is recommended that people with chronic kidney disease and/or a kidney transplant be vaccinated for COVID-19. The vaccines can help protect you, your family and your community from COVID-19. If a person with chronic kidney disease gets COVID-19 there is a higher chance that they will get very sick from the disease. As such, the vaccine is an important part of protecting you from COVID-19.

Which vaccine is best for people with chronic kidney disease?

There is no evidence that one vaccine is better than another for people with chronic kidney disease. We recommend that people who have access to the vaccine receive the first vaccine that is offered to them so that they can be protected as safely and as quickly as possible, and to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus through the community. 

Filter through the myths and check out these facts:

• The COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19;

• Health Canada only approves a vaccine if it is proven to be safe and effective through a rigorous scientific review system. 

• Vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19.

• Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight a virus if you are exposed. 

What else should I do?

Follow all public health guidelines to avoid COVID-19. 
Even after you have received the vaccine, it is important to continue to follow all public health advice including hand washing, mask wearing and keeping 6 feet apart from people you do not live with. This will help to keep you, your family and community safe, and end the pandemic.

If you have questions or concerns reach out to your kidney care team.  

For more information or to speak with someone about your emotional well-being or mental health contact: 

Bounceback Ontario (for help with managing low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry): Visit https://bouncebackontario.ca/ or call 1-866-345-0224 

ConnexOntario (Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Helpline): Visit https://www.connexontario.ca/en-ca/ or call 1-866-531-2600 

Access Peer Support
The Kidney Foundation of Canada Kidney Connect Peer Support or call 1-866-390-7337. 
 
Sources: 
Ontario Renal Network: https://www.ontariorenalnetwork.ca/en/kidney-care-resources/living-with-chronic-kidney-disease/covid-19 
Government of Ontario: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-vaccines-ontario 
Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/vaccines.html