Key Takeaways:
- According to Saskatchewan officials, citizens who have not been vaccinated are nearly five times more likely to be hospitalized than those who have had two doses plus a booster.
- Even if you’ve been vaccinated, you should do a fast test before getting together, and if you’re unwell, stay at home and don’t host others.
While the most current COVID-19 breakthrough data is still being finalized, Saskatchewan officials say early results show that unvaccinated residents are about five times more likely to be hospitalized than individuals who have received two doses plus a booster.
When compared to individuals who have had their COVID-19 immunizations and a booster dose, unvaccinated residents are around 10 times additional likely to be admitted to ICU.
“Vaccination remains the strongest defense against severe COVID-19 results. “Finish your primary, two-dose series and get your booster dose(s) when you’re ready,” according to a government press release.
Also read: Emergency rooms in Sask are in ‘crisis,’ as per the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses
COVID-19 vaccine is currently available to all inhabitants aged five and up.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) online booking service or participating pharmacies can be used to make appointments for the following groups of people:
- You are eligible for two doses of a two-vaccine series if you are between 5 and 11.
- If you’re among the ages of 12 and 69, you’re eligible for two doses of a two-vaccine series, plus a third dose four months after the second.
- You are eligible for 2 doses of a two-vaccine series plus your third dose four months after your second dose as well as your fourth dose four months after your third dose if you are 70 yrs old or older.
- The intervals between dosages are shorter if you have any various health issues.
Residents aged 70 and up can use the online booking system to schedule their fourth dose at SHA clinics.
Those who are 50 yrs or older and live in a First Nations community or the Northern Service Administration District are eligible to schedule both vaccine shots, as well as their booster dosage four months after their second dose and their fourth dose four months after their third dose.
To schedule a booster dose appointment, these residents should call 1-833-SASKVAX (727-5829).
Residents in long-term care and personal care homes will receive their third and fourth doses straight from SHA.
According to officials, residents who test COVID-19 positive on a PCR or quick antigen test may be able to undergo Paxlovid treatment to reduce the risk of severe results.
The government’s website has more information on Paxlovid and eligibility.
The government reminds residents of recommended procedures to prevent COVID-19 transmission when some families and friends gather over the Easter long weekend.
Even if you’ve been vaccinated, you should do a quick test before gathering, and if you’re sick, remain home and don’t host others.
The government also reminds people who are eligible to schedule their immunization or booster appointments.
Other strategies to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19 and transmission include increased ventilation, frequent handwashing, and wearing a mask in public locations.
Source: Global News
