The Grey Bruce Health Unit has received notice from the Ministry of Health of a change to the spacing between the first and second dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine. The interval between first and second dose is extended to 16 weeks.
Based on the limited supply of vaccine, the extended time will allow more people to get their initial dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The change is in line with direction from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. This 16-week interval for the second dose applies to the two-dose vaccines currently approved by Health Canada (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD).
There is no change to the second dose vaccine schedule for the following:
· Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, elder care lodges and assisted living facilities; and,
· First Nation communities and First Nation individuals living outside of First Nation communities.
For those that book on-line, second dose appointments, in line with this 16-week interval, can be made at the same time that you book your initial appointment.
For those that have already received the first dose, Public Health will coordinate and provide notice of second dose in the same way as the first dose. These doses will be scheduled with this new 16-week interval.
To remain up to date on vaccine administration process, progress, and for all plans related to the vaccine rollout in Grey and Bruce, please visit:
COVID-19 Vaccines publichealthgreybruce.on.ca