Public Health staff from the Nunatsiavut Department of Health and Social Development will continue to distribute the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to all eligible residents within the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area, 18 years of age and older, even though the Province is currently at its highest COVID-19 alert level 5.
“We have consulted with regional health and it has been agreed that it is critical that vaccinations continue,” says Nunatsiavut’s Minister of Health and Social Development, Gerald Asivak. “Second doses of the vaccine have already been administered in some communities, and some people are still getting their first dose. It’s imperative that we follow through with our plans to inoculate as many residents as possible throughout Nunatsiavut, as failing to do so could pose potential risks if COVID-19 spreads to our communities.”
The second dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has already been administered in Makkovik. Public Health staff are expected to complete rolling out the vaccine in Nain today.
Below is the tentative schedule for administering the vaccine over the next three days:
•Today, February 15- Postville and Hopedale
•Tomorrow, February 16- Hopedale
The Moderna vaccine requires two doses to be effective. The first dose was administered in all five Labrador Inuit communities the week of January 11. Public Health staff will arrange times for eligible individuals to receive the second dose. Those who have yet to receive the vaccine, and wish to do so, are asked to contact the Public Health Nurse in their respective communities. All public health protocols will be strictly followed during the distribution of the vaccine.
The Nunatsiavut Government continues to work with all relevant authorities to ensure the vaccine is administered as quickly as possible in a safe and efficient manner.