Chatham-Kent’s top doctor is trying to ease concerns about when people might be able to get their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
On Friday, the province announced it is speeding up second shots, drastically reducing the wait from 16 weeks back to 4, starting with those 80 and older today.
But for those who are still waiting, Chatham-Kent’s medical officer Dr. David Colby says there’s really no rush.
“The evidence is mounting that not only epidemiologically is it far more important to get first doses in people, but that the vaccine actually works better with a longer interval in between doses than the original approval characteristics.”
More than 51,000 first doses have now been administered in Chatham-Kent.
“Some reassurance, the first dose is the important one, and we are working to deliver vaccinations to Chatham-Kent just as fast as we can, and that includes all sectors that are eligible now.”
An estimated 55% of those 12 and older in Chatham-Kent have already received at least their first shot.
