Robert: Province expands eligibility for COVID-19 boosters

For the first time in what feels like a long time, the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, held a press conference today to discuss COVID-19.

As she discussed the effects the new Omicron sub-variant may have on the province, the good Doctor announced starting July 20th, second COVID-19 vaccine booster doses will be made available for anyone over the age of 50. Appointments will become available as early as next week.

Fitzgerald followed this news by cautioning those who may be eager to get their next shot as we could see a surge in COVID-19 infections in the upcoming fall/winter seasons.

“The fall could see new vaccines that target specific variants,” Dr. J. Fitz explains, noting delaying your second booster to a later date could offer you best protection at a time when the chances of infection have increased. “The timing of your second booster is a choice only you can make.”

Fitzgerald also emphasized how vaccination is one of the best tools available to fight COVID.

Even with a new sub-variant of Omicron in circulation, the CMO says there will be no changes to isolation requirements as BA.5 does not seem to cause severe disease.