Dr. David Williams. Screenshot
Ontario is proceeding with second dose administration of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
The rollout will start with those who received their first AstraZeneca shot between March 10 and 19.
For a limited time during the week of May 24, anyone in that time frame can opt for an earlier dose interval of 10 weeks with informed consent.
Consent includes understanding available data and speaking with a health care provider if you have concerns.
Dr. Kit Young Hoon is the Medical Officer of Health for the Northwestern Health Unit, and she believes no one in the catchment area received that vaccine between March 10 and 19.
AstraZeneca has been associated with rare, potentially fatal blood clots and the province suspended its usage for a brief period.
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams says health risks posed by the vaccine are low and new data indicate the benefits far outweigh the risk with second doses.
“We’ll continue to work with Health Canada to monitor the quality and ethically of all COVID-19 vaccines being used in Ontario. The health and safety of Ontarians remains our top priority. All Ontarians are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as their eligible.”
Dr. Williams says he’s also looking closely at available a clinical trial in the UK of administering doses of two different vaccines.
“At this time the National Advisory Committee on Immunization does not recommend that the vaccines of different types be used in the two-dose series as data on the immune response following mixed vaccine schedules are not yet available.
He’s expecting more information in June.
The AstraZeneca vaccine has been offered at participating pharmacies in northwestern Ontario.
