The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has released guidance on the interchangeability of COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in Canada, meaning the potential of receiving a different type of COVID-19 vaccine for your second dose than you received for your first.
Effective immediately, the provincial vaccination rollout plan will incorporate guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) authorizing the use of a different vaccine for your second dose than you received for your first dose. Their recommendations are based on current scientific evidence of the vaccines and expert review.
Individuals who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine may receive either AstraZeneca vaccine or an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) for their second dose, unless contraindicated.
Persons who received a first dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) should be offered the same mRNA vaccine for their second dose. If the same mRNA vaccine is not readily available or unknown, another mRNA vaccine can be considered interchangeable and should be offered to complete the vaccine series.
All vaccines approved in Canada are safe. Health Canada and provincial public health officials will be monitoring the interchangeability of vaccines to ensure effective protection against COVID-19. All residents need to receive two doses of the two-dose vaccines in order to achieve the best possible protection.
Beginning the week of June 6, the Saskatchewan Health Authority will be establishing clinics for second doses of AstraZeneca to anyone who is eligible, according to the provincial age eligibility and date of first dose - this includes those Saskatchewan residents under 40 who received AstraZeneca as their first dose.
Details on clinic locations and hours will be announced this week. Note that not all vaccine types are available at all clinic locations; vaccine type available by clinic is listed when that clinic is advertised.
Once you are eligible to receive your second dose, you remain eligible and may consider delaying until the recommended 12-week interval between first and second doses of AstraZeneca is reached. Vaccine choice will be dependent on those vaccines that are available at the time you make your appointment.
You will not be required to receive AstraZeneca as a second dose. Anyone who received AstraZeneca as a first dose is eligible to receive a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for their second dose if that is your preference.
Effective immediately, the SHA has over 5,000 appointments available for first and second dose immunizations at clinics throughout the province. Eligible residents can book their immunization online 24/7 at saskatchewan.ca/COVID-19 vaccine, or phone 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-727-5829) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., 7 days per week.
