(Government of Saskatchewan/Submitted)

By CKOM News

Saskatchewan makes COVID booster shots available to more people

Apr 11, 2022 | 2:52 PM

Saskatchewan has expanded its eligibility for fourth doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

As of Monday, all people 70 and over and all residents of First Nations communities and the Northern Service Administration District who are 50 and over now can get their second booster shots.

People who live in long-term and personal care homes and those with certain health conditions have been eligible for fourth doses since February.

Those who are eligible for a fourth shot can get it provided four months have passed since their third dose. That interval previously was five months.

Severely immunocompromised individuals can get their fourth dose three months after their third shot.

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As well, everyone in the province who is 12 and over is now eligible to get their first booster shot, as long as four months have passed since their second dose.

Last Tuesday, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization suggested provinces should prepare for a rapid deployment of boosters.

People who are eligible to get a fourth shot can make an appointment with the Saskatchewan Health Authority by calling 1-833-727-5829 or by calling participating pharmacies. The SHA’s online booking system currently isn’t available for that group.

“It is anticipated that Saskatchewan will offer fourth doses to all residents 50 years and older by the first week in May,” the provincial government said in a media release. “Further expansion of the booster dose program will be publicly announced.”

The government continues to encourage people to complete their vaccination series and then to get booster shots.

“COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths in Saskatchewan remain highest among unvaccinated populations,” the release said. “Receiving the first, second and booster dose provides optimal protection against the Omicron variant, even if you have contracted and recovered from COVID-19.”