With the Saskatchewan Health Authority announcing the second COVID-19 vaccine being open to everyone, they’re putting out some key items to know for the public.
As of Thursday, second doses are open to everyone over the age of 12, provided it’s been a minimum of 28 days since a person got their first. Once someone is eligible, they’ll never lose that eligibility, in both the first and second dose context.
Saskatchewan preparing for increased delivery schedule as inventory grows
The SHA says they’re expecting an increased allotment of all vaccines in the coming weeks, which will allow for the administration of all outstanding second doses by mid-July.
In response, the SHA has opened up 47,000 bookable appointments across the province, and encourage people to take advantage of this or any other option. The other options include a pharmacy, drive-ins, or mobile clinics.
Two clinics will be open this weekend in Lloydminster. One giving out Pfizer on Friday, June 25th, and the other Moderna on Saturday, June 26th. This is dependant on stock, and if the Pfizer runs out on Saturday they may switch to Moderna.
To get a second dose, residents must know when they got their first, which is on their vaccine card, online on their eHealth record or available by calling 1-833-SaskVax.
Vaccines will be interchangeable between AstraZeneca and an mRNA, or between mRNAs
On the note of switching vaccines, residents who got the AstraZeneca vaccine will be able to decide to get the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for their second dose. They can also continue with AstraZeneca for a second dose if it is on hand at the time.
Based on updates from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization and Saskatchewan’s clinical experts, people will be offered this choice.
People who got either Pfizer or Moderna can get either or for their next vaccine, with the exception of young people between 12 and 17, for whom only Pfizer has been approved.
People can find details about their vaccine, how to book it and where they can get shots on the Saskatchewan Government’s website.