The local public health agency is switching strategies in response to a shortage of COVID-19 vaccines by halting first-time vaccinations and concentrating efforts on ensuring those who have already received a first dose will receive a second and final shot.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health updated its local vaccination strategy on Thursday, in which it said it is pausing any further first-dose vaccinations.
To date, WDG Public Health has administered a total of 6,553 first doses of COVID-19 vaccine locally. That number represents both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
Because it is not expecting the number of Pfizer vaccines that was originally promised, WDG Public Health is now focusing on fully vaccinating those who have already received a first dose. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses for the maximum protection against COVID-19 to be gained.
WDG Public Health said in the update that it has completed the first dose vaccinations for all long-term care and retirement home residents in the area — a full week ahead of the Ministry of Health’s timeline — and second doses will begin locally on Feb. 4.
Those residents will receive a second dose within the recommended time frame from the manufacturer, 28 days for Moderna and 21 days for Pfizer.
WDG Public Health is stretching the timeline for the second dose for recipients of the Pfizer vaccine from the company-recommended 21 to 35 days. Ontario’s chief medical officer of health recently recommended an extension of the dosing interval for the second shot of that vaccine to 35 days and no more than 42 days in response to the shortage.
People who received a first dose of the Moderna vaccine can expect a second dose approximately 28 days after the first shot.
There is currently no waiting list to be considered for a vaccination, WDG Public Health will contact those who are eligible for a shot.
While waiting to receive a vaccine, WDG Public Health recommends that residents continue to follow public health measures, like physical distancing, practicing good hand hygiene and wearing masks.
