Supporting you through Omicron

Person wearing full PPE making a heart shape with their hands.

We know this is a very challenging time for parents and caregivers with Omicron spreading so rampantly in the community. We understand it can feel stressful to come to the hospital, but rest assured we have many layers of protection in place—including screening at our entrances, wearing masks, good ventilation, fully-vaccinated staff and medical staff, physical distancing, frequent hand-washing and disinfecting of surfaces and more.

We are always here for you and that is why we have put together a round-up of some of the supports that are currently available to you at CHEO to help you continue to navigate this challenging time.

First and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine available at CHEO

We are providing first and second doses at CHEO to children and youth 5-17 years old. If your child or teen needs some extra support to get their vaccine, please pre-register with us so they can receive their vaccine (either dose!) from us.

Free parking in January

We're offering FREE parking for the month of January—the parking gates are lifted so there is no charge for parking (no charge for CHEO staff and physicians either!). This measure is temporary and in effect for one month, as we rely on parking revenues to pay for new equipment, programs and world-class research.

Answers to your most frequently asked questions about kids and Omicron

We recently held a Kids and Omicron town hall where CHEO experts answered the questions that have been on your mind. For those who couldn't attend and anyone who wants a refresher, check out our FAQ for the answers to some of your most asked questions about vaccines, school, testing and more! You can also watch the recording of our town hall.

Extra support for you through our respite and home-care programs

We are expanding respite programs to support more families this winter. CHEO’s expert staff are being redeployed to provide in-person programs and services to children and youth with medical complexity and/or developmental needs, while allowing families a bit of recharge time. CHEO is also working with its home-care partners to provide more in-home respite.

Food vouchers for inpatient families

COVID-19 means we have to do a lot of things differently at CHEO, including more safety rules that mean we can’t spend time together or relax in common areas the way we used to. To thank you for putting safety first, we are providing food vouchers to all inpatient families so you can enjoy a meal from our café, cafeteria or room service on us.

Complete your entrance screening online

Did you know you can complete your entrance screening online before coming to CHEO for an appointment or stay? Our online tool was designed for families, by families to make your visit easier and quicker. No need to wait in line, simply show proof of your completed screen to our entrance screeners at the door and you will be on your way.

Mental health support and more COVID-19 information

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