Second AstraZeneca dose now available for some Sask. residents

Some Saskatchewan residents are now able to get their second shot of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

In a release issued Wednesday night, the Saskatchewan Health Authority said people over the age of 85 who received AstraZeneca for their first dose can now book their second shot of that vaccine.

Cancer patients, solid organ transplant patients or patients receiving treatment with Rituximab and Ocrelizumab who received a letter confirming their eligibility are now able to get their second AstraZeneca dose as well.

The health authority dispensed AstraZeneca as first doses to around 73,000 Saskatchewan residents. In recent weeks, health officials have said there currently are some 20,000 doses available to be given as second shots.

That has left some who received that vaccine as a first shot wondering what drug they’ll receive as a second dose.

The government has said it will administer Pfizer as a second dose, but also has suggested those who want AstraZeneca for their second shot will be given that drug.

Guidance on the administration of AstraZeneca second doses for the general population will be provided before the recommended 12-week interval between doses, which begins the second week of June.

People can book online here, or by calling 1-833-727-5829. The call centre is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., every day.

For those who didn’t receive AstraZeneca, second doses are available for anyone 80 and older or for those who received their first dose before March 1.

Again, individuals who were diagnosed with or are being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will get a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose.

For the general public, the eligibility to book a second dose is based on age or date of first dose.