About 40,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines are expected to arrive in Manitoba in January.
The roughly 10,000 immunizations per week will feature both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
The first shipment of the Moderna vaccine is expected to arrive in Manitoba this week, according to a press release from the provincial government.
Manitoba has joined other provinces in deciding to vaccinate as many people as possible with each vaccine shipment — and will no longer hold back a stockpile for the vaccine’s second dose.
Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two injections about three weeks apart to optimally protect against COVID-19.
Premier Brian Pallister says the decision was made as confidence grows around the province’s ability to receive a steady supply of vaccines
Pallister also seemed to suggest some code red restrictions could soon be relaxed, but also said the next 90 days are pivotal, and Manitobans will have to remain vigilant in taking action to reduce the spread.
Arrival Of Moderna Vaccine To Benefit First Nations Communities
With the imminent arrival of the Moderna vaccine, Manitoba health officials say they're working alongside experts in First Nations health to quickly deploy the first doses to northern and remote communities.
The Moderna vaccine is much easier to transport to remote communities, in comparison to the more complicated freezing requirements of the Pfizer option.
Manitoba expects to receive 7,300 doses of the Moderna vaccine this week and will make 5,300 of those doses available to address immediate First Nation priorities.
The Ongoing Vaccination Campaign In Manitoba
The province’s lone vaccination clinic will move to the RBC Convention Centre beginning Monday, Jan. 4.
Eligibility criteria currently includes the following healthcare workers:
· work in critical care units
· work in long-term care facilities, born on or before Dec. 31, 1969 (changed from 1967)
· work in acute care facilities, born on or before Dec. 31, 1969 (changed from 1967) or
· assigned to a COVID-19 immunization clinic or testing site
Health officials ask that only eligible Manitobans should try to make an appointment, to avoid tying up the phone lines.
