The Saskatchewan Health Authority has officially launched Phase Two of COVID-19 vaccine delivery today.

This phase has begun with first-dose vaccine appointments for people over the age of 67 across the province. Now, anyone that age and older can book a vaccine appointment either online or over the phone at 1-833-Sask-Vax (727-5829).

Those considered clinically extremely vulnerable are now a part of this phase and will receive a letter with instructions for booking appointments. This part of Phase Two also includes setting up vaccination for living settings such as group homes for persons with intellectual disabilities or emergency shelters, among others.

Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Scott Livingstone says that a successful rollout of phase one vaccination has made it that they can start the second phase earlier.

The SHA is also continuing to finish Phase One. This includes completing all first and second doses for long-term care and personal care home residents and staff.

As more vaccine becomes available in the coming weeks, the SHA will announce the opening of more clinics.

Province introduces paid leave time for people to get vaccinated

Paid leave for workers who need to get vaccinated was also announced on March 18th.

To do this, the Saskatchewan Government has introduced amendments to The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Special Vaccination Leave is built much like the regulations that allow people to leave work to go vote during a general election. 

Now, workers can leave for up to three hours to go get vaccinated without losing any pay or benefits. If an employer deems the circumstances warrant a longer break from work.

These changes take effect immediately.