Waterloo Region reaches vaccination milestone

As of April 15, over 133 thousand individuals, or 25 per cent of the adult population in Waterloo Region have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. 

This marks an important milestone for the region, as clinics adjust to a reduced supply of the vaccine because of delays. 

Since the roll out began, the Waterloo Region Vaccine Distribution Task Force has been at the whim of vaccine quantities, adjusting appointments based on how many vaccines are available. 

For the next two to three weeks, shipment delays of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are expected, and will impact the amount of vaccines arriving in the region. In preparation of these delays, the Task Force is planning to close the clinics for days at a time while waiting for more vaccines to be delivered. 

“The current delay in vaccine delivery is going to have an impact on our vaccination efforts in the coming weeks,” said Jennifer Davis, Lead of Command Operations for the Task Force. “We have been opening clinics to build our capacity to vaccinate more residents of Waterloo Region as quickly as possible. We’re ready to get vaccines in arms as soon as we get them.” 

Many other residents have already pre-registered for their first dose. The Task Force says they will open pre-registration to other groups according to the provincial government’s prioritization plan, as well as the availability of vaccines. 

In the meantime, adults 55 and up are encouraged to consider the AstraZeneca vaccine from participating pharmacies and some primary care locations, as this is likely the fastest way to get vaccinated.