Toronto, ON – CNIB, Canada's largest non-profit serving people with sight loss, revealed a new tool for Canadians with disabilities today.
The tool, known as the Canadian COVID-19 Vaccine Disability Dashboard, is a centralized resource that contains information for COVID-19 vaccine eligibility across Canada. This important resource aims to highlight how people with disabilities are being included in the vaccine rollout.
Users can choose to download either an accessible word document or infographic – both of which contain an overview of local vaccine eligibility. The dashboard, which is updated weekly, will provide current information on COVID-19 vaccines, as well as local definitions of chronic conditions, information on who falls under various disability-related groups, and information for caregivers.
“It is critical that people with disabilities across the country have accessible and equitable access to this information,” says John M. Rafferty, President and CEO of CNIB. “Provincial and federal health authorities have continued to stress the importance of vaccination – especially with the constantly evolving nature of the variants of concern. The additional assistance coming from this dashboard will help to level the playing field for people with disabilities when accessing vaccines.”
While the dashboard is not an exhaustive resource, it aims to provide accessible, clear, concise, and thorough information about COVID-19 vaccine eligibility for individuals with disabilities. The dashboard serves as a supplementary resource for individuals, who should continue to refer to their local public health authorities for the most up-to-date information concerning vaccine eligibility.
“Ultimately, we hope to help provide a better understanding of how people with disabilities are being considered and prioritized during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout,” says Dr. Mahadeo Sukhai, Director of Research and Chief Inclusion & Accessibility Officer for CNIB. “Clear and concise vaccine eligibility information will enable Canadians with disabilities to make informed decisions.”
To access the COVID-19 Vaccine Disability Dashboard visit https://cnib.ca/en/covid-19-accessibility-dashboard-introduction
-30-
About CNIB: CNIB is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Our work as a blind foundation is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners from coast to coast to coast. To learn more or get involved, visit cnib.ca.
Media Inquiries:
Alison Byczok, Director, Marketing and Communications
416-272-0464