The Chief Public Health Officer of Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) has announced that residents will soon be able to book appointments for the latest flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Health Canada recently approved Moderna’s updated COVID-19 vaccine for all Canadians aged six months and older. Dr. Heather Morrison, P.E.I.’s Chief Public Health Officer, stated that they are working to distribute the vaccines as quickly as possible.
Dr. Morrison encourages high-risk individuals such as those aged 65 and older, residents of long-term care facilities, pregnant individuals, and those living in Indigenous communities to consider getting both vaccines. She also advises individuals who have received a COVID shot or have previously had COVID at least six months ago to get vaccinated again in order to enhance their protection against severe cases in the future.
The Moderna vaccine is expected to arrive in P.E.I. soon, and approval for the Pfizer vaccine is anticipated in the coming weeks. The province has experienced one COVID-related death and at least 80 positive cases over the past month, with a test positivity rate of 12 percent.
Acknowledging that some Islanders may be experiencing vaccine fatigue after three years of living with the pandemic, Dr. Morrison emphasizes that everyone has a role to play in ensuring the health of the population during the fall and winter seasons. By getting vaccinated, individuals can reduce the risk of getting sick, being hospitalized, and protect those around them.
Sources:
– CBC News: Compass
– Health Canada