SHA Urges Residents To Get Vaccinated As Majority Of June COVID-19 Cases Were Non-Vaccinated Residents
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) says the data shows those who are not vaccinated, or only with one vaccination, for COVID -19 are at the greatest risk of contracting the virus.
The data shows that in June 80 percent of the cases of contracting COVID – 19 was amongst those who were not vaccinated.
Although the province has reached the threshold in the number of people vaccinated to lift most of the restrictions the more people who are vaccinated helps to raise the probability that herd immunity is achieved.
Herd immunity is when a sufficient number of people have been vaccinated and because of that a virus cannot spread to those who, for various medical reasons, cannot be vaccinated or they are vaccinated and they may have a medical condition that limits their immunity.
The SHA is hopeful that those who have not been vaccinated will take the time to go out and get their first shot or for those who have had their first shot will go out and have their second shot.
Vaccination is available to all residents who are 12 years of age and over for either the first or the second dose.
Everyone under the age of 18 will only be administered the Pfizer vaccine as other vaccines carry a higher risk for younger people to develop complications such as blood clots.
If a person has had their first dose they must wait a minimum of 28 days before they go for their second dose.
There is no third dose or booster shot – something vaccine manufacturer Pfizer has been pushing for – at this time.
To help residents get their first or second doses there presently is just over 66,000 booked appointments and if you want to be vaccinated for your second shot with the Astra Zeneca vaccine and not have dose mixing it is available at some immunization locations through special request.
Dose or vaccine mixing is where two different varieties or brands are administered. Most often the first dose is Astra Zeneca with the second dose being either Pfizer’s or Moderna’s version of the vaccine.
The SHA would like to advise residents that being safe this Summer includes being fully immunized.
The SHA would like to see residents take the time to get immunized before leaving home for vacation.
The main concern of who could contract COVID – 19 has shifted during the past year from the elderly to those who are not vaccinated or fully vaccinated.
A major area being watched by the SHA is the rapid growth of Variants of Concern most notably the Delta variant which is highly transmissible particularly among younger portions of our population. The Delta variant – first discovered in India – has spread rapidly and in what is described as “alarming numbers” in the United States. It is presently also in Canada.
The SHA says by increasing the number of fully immunized residents, we decrease the chance of additional outbreaks, serious illness and death.
For additional information on COVID-19 vaccines and immunization, visit saskatchewan.ca/COVID-19 vaccine.Opens in new window
Where to Get Immunized
Saskatchewan residents have multiple options for receiving first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccine when eligible.
To be immunized, and for the most up-to-date information on available clinic locations and hours the following resources are available:
· Drop in to one of our mobile or pop-up clinics when we announce one in your community.
· See the full list of drive-thru and walk-in clinics and hours at www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vaxOpens in new window.
· Book an appointment online 24/7 at saskatchewan.ca/COVID-19 vaccineOpens in new window.
· Call 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-727-5829) to book your appointment, 7 days a week, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
· Visit your local pharmacy. For a list of participating pharmacies, including vaccine brands available, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies .