Covid cases still down as Dr. Henry provides new details on second vaccine doses

Jun 3, 2021 | 2:50 PM

Another day of lower case numbers and information on second vaccine doses highlighted Thursday’s provincial COVID-19 update.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, reported 199 new cases, the third straight day of under 200.

Of the new infections, 34 were in Interior Health, with 68 in Vancouver Coastal Health, 89 in Fraser Health, two in Island Health and six in Northern Health.

Active cases are at 2,563, with 224 people in hospital and 62 in critical or intensive care.

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Henry announced two more deaths, both people in their 60s in the Vancouver and Fraser regions, for total 1,709.

As for the immunization program, the vaccine total is now at 3,104,143 doses, with 229,585 second doses.

The numbers represent 71.8 per cent of 18 and over adults getting at least one shot, and 68.9 per cent of everyone 12 and older.

Dr. Henry outline more details for people ready to get their second shot.

“Anytime between 8 and 16 weeks after the first dose is good, and we know, in some cases, a little bit longer is actually better [as it builds more immunity],” Henry explained.

Henry said it’s preferable to have the same vaccine for both doses, but data from around the world shows it is safe and effective to have a different vaccine.

“It is safe to have either one, if that is needed. It’s equally safe. But what is most important is that everyone does need to receive two doses,” the province’s top doctor stated.

Henry said it will mostly affect those who had Moderna for the first dose as supplies of that vaccine have been spotty this month, meaning those people can choose to get Pfizer or wait for another Moderna.

For people who got AstraZeneca (AZ) for their first shot, Henry said those individuals will have a choice for their final dose starting next week

“For the 280,000 people who got it, you did make the right choice,” said Henry, adding the AZ vaccine was essential and helped stop transmission in communities when case rates were high, even though it does carry a rare risk of blood clots.

Henry said world evidence of mixing and matching vaccines shows it is safe and effective.

“People can receive a second dose of AstraZeneca eight weeks after first one through pharmacies starting Monday (June 7). The pharmacy where you received it, will contact you to set up appointment,” Henry explained.

The other option for AZ recipients is to get a messenger RNA (Pfizer or Moderna) for dose two, which has to be booked through the Get Vaccinated website, also starting Monday, June 7. Henry said those people who have registered, will receive a text or email to book an appointment for those.

The doctor said studies have shown if you have different vaccine for a second dose, you are more likely to have side effects such as a sore arm, fever, achiness or feeling “kind of blah” for a couple days.

“None of the serious side effects, but more likely to have a bit more of a side effect,” commented Henry.

by Pete McIntyre

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