Torontonians await a different kind of shot at former Brunswick House

Toronto residents are now able to book COVID-19 vaccinations at the former Brunswick House, a historical Toronto bar-turned Rexall pharmacy, and people are finding it a bit ironic.

As of April 20, Ontarians age 40 and up are able to book appointments for the AstraZeneca vaccine at select pharmacies – “The Brunny” Rexall location is one of them.

The Brunswick House, right on the corner of Bloor Street and Brunswick Avenue, was a notorious spot for University of Toronto students to let loose and get their drink on.  Now those who line up outside the former bar will be getting another kind of “shot.”

Torontonians who used to spend their nights at the bar recognized the address and took to Twitter to share their thoughts of the “full circle” moment.

“Given the number of Antibodies I developed at the Brunny in undergrad this makes perfect sense,” reads a tweet.

“Shots at the brunny. Time is a flat circle,” reads another.

 

People of any age can get the vaccine now because if theres one thing I know, the Brunny doesn’t check ID https://t.co/pJ8uqGfiCK

— Kyle Sharratt (@sharratt_k) April 19, 2021

Given the number of antibodies I developed at the Brunny in undergrad this makes perfect sense. https://t.co/QKQT0Nb1LV

— Craig Gilchrist (@rcraiggilchrist) April 19, 2021

With the Rexall there only offering vaccines for people 40+, it marks the first time in its history that the Brunny has turned down serving minors. pic.twitter.com/hjMU4eLM8B

— Mike Beauvais (@MikeBeauvais) April 20, 2021

How happy are my husband and his buddies that they can go back to The Brunny and get some shots?

Nate the Great and Rocking Irene might not be there but it’s sure to be a memorable time.

Shots! Shots! Shots!

@RexallDrugstore #TheBrunswickHouse #TheBrunny #Onpoli #covid19 pic.twitter.com/6LjrSddSkJ

— Laryssa Waler (@LWaler) April 19, 2021

Shots at the Brunny. time is a flat circle https://t.co/RhUto6aqYu

— Devin Sarges (@devin_sarges) April 19, 2021

Across Ontario, about 1,400 pharmacies are currently offering AstraZeneca vaccines. Although appointments are being filled, the province is expected to see two upcoming shipments delayed.

• See also:
  • Ontario lowers AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine eligibility age to 40
  • Upcoming shipments of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine delayed
  • Select Toronto pharmacies to offer COVID-19 vaccination 24/7

One thing is for sure, a little laughter is needed at a time like this.