In February of last year, I was enrolled in the University Health Network's (UHN) transplant clinic, awaiting a double lung transplant. Despite being in a vulnerable position, I faced an unexpected hurdle. I attempted six times to receive the RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine but was denied each time because I didn't meet the age criteria. As a result, last December, I contracted RSV, which led to a 10-day hospital stay, incurring significant costs to the Ontario healthcare system.

My health situation took another turn when my transplant status was placed ON HOLD. The requirement was simple: I had to present a negative RSV swab. However, when I visited my primary care provider to obtain the swab, I was informed that public health had discarded it because I didn’t meet their testing criteria.

This situation is not unique to me. Many individuals, especially those with compromised immune systems or underlying conditions, face similar barriers. The limitation based on age is putting countless lives at risk. RSV is not a virus that discriminates by age, and our healthcare policies should reflect this reality.

The current age restrictions on RSV vaccine availability do not consider the needs of the vulnerable populations that are significantly affected by this virus. We need to change this to protect lives and reduce healthcare costs associated with preventable hospitalizations.

I am calling on the Ontario Ministry of Health to revise the criteria for RSV vaccination eligibility to include individuals who, despite their age, are at high risk due to medical conditions or compromised immune systems. Expanding access to the RSV vaccine will safeguard public health and ensure that no one is left vulnerable due to policy constraints.

Please join me in advocating for this change. Sign this petition and help us urge legislators and health officials to remove age-based restrictions on RSV vaccination. Let's work together to safeguard those who need protection the most. Your support can make a difference.

You can sign and share this petition, and email the Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones, at sylvia.jones@ontario.ca

Thank you for your support!