New COVID Vaccine Booster Program
Nova Scotia is offering a new round of booster shots for COVID.
Effective yesterday, people at highest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 can book another vaccine dose. This spring dose will be available from March 25 to May 31.
Nova Scotia is following recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
People at highest risk include:
- those 65 years of age or older
- people aged 18 and older living in long-term care, nursing homes, senior congregate living settings, or residential care facilities
- people six months and older who meet the criteria for being moderately to severely immunocompromised due to an underlying condition or treatment
- people aged 50 years and older who identify as Black, African Nova Scotian or First Nations
It is normally recommended that people wait six months after their last COVID-19 vaccine or infection to get a vaccine dose but a shorter interval of at least three months is allowed for the spring dose.
Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health says, “COVID-19 cases are steady in Nova Scotia, and it remains important that those who are at highest risk of infection get their spring dose to prevent severe illness.”
Dr. Robert Strang added, “People who aren’t eligible for a spring dose and are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines are still well protected.”
People who did not receive a dose in the fall or winter can continue to get the vaccine, even if they are not eligible for this specific the spring campaign.
Appointments can be booked online at https://novascotia.ca/vaccination. Those who are unable to book online can schedule an appointment by calling 1-833-797-7772, seven days a week.
Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are safe and effective, so Nova Scotians should choose the first available appointment rather than wait for a specific brand.
Public Health also anticipates a fall COVID-19 vaccination program.
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