Delays in Pfizer shipments will impact local vaccination clinics: public health

Local clinics will prioritize Moderna vaccine for those 18 and above; remaining Pfizer doses to be used for youths aged 12 to 17

WELLINGTON COUNTY – Starting this week, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) COVID-19 vaccine clinics will prioritize the Moderna vaccine for those aged 18 and above.

The move, announced by public health on June 21, is a direct result of Pfizer vaccine shipment delays in Ontario.

“These shipment changes are certainly challenging,” stated Dr. Nicola Mercer, WDGPH Medical Officer of Health.

“We are doing everything we can to minimize the impact on the public, but we must do what we can to ensure we continue to vaccinate our region as quickly as possible.

“I want to assure residents of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph that their first or second dose will be safe and effective.”

Public health officials say the Moderna vaccine will now be offered at all WDGPH and partner clinics for those 18 and older – for first and second doses – until shipments of Pfizer vaccines resume.

Remaining Pfizer supplies will be prioritized for youth aged 12 to 17, they add.

“For all residents of the region who received either Moderna or Pfizer for their first dose, evidence indicates that receiving either vaccine as a second dose provides strong protection against COVID-19,” states the WDGPH release.

“Both mRNA vaccines are authorized for use in Canada, use similar technology, and are safe to mix.”

For more information on the COVID-19 vaccines, please visit wdgpublichealth.ca/vaccine.