Moderna delay putting some vaccination bookings in Saskatchewan on hold

A delay in the next delivery of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine to Saskatchewan is going to delay some vaccination appointments in the province.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority said Friday a shipment of 21,300 Moderna doses expected in the province this week is being delayed up to six days by the manufacturer.

As a result, some of the appointments already booked in Saskatchewan will be pushed back.

“The SHA is still assessing the full impact and will notify impacted patients directly next week and reschedule their appointments,” the authority said in a media release. “A further public announcement will also be made early next week.

“In the interim, no action is required from patients.”

Also Friday, the SHA reported the eligibility for booking vaccination appointments will stay the same for Saturday and Sunday.

Anyone 62 years of age and older can book appointments here 24/7 using their health card or they can call 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-727-5829) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 11 p.m.

People between the ages of 50 to 61 years of age living in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District can only book appointments by phone. Individuals in that area who are 62 and over can use the online booking system.

All remaining Phase 1 health-care workers are eligible to call for appointments as well. They’ll need proof of their eligibility to book; that’s to be provided to them by their employer.

People with underlying health conditions who are considered clinically extremely vulnerable also can be vaccinated. A letter of eligibility is required to book an appointment, and those are to be in the mail in the next two weeks.

Online booking isn’t available to people in that category unless they’re 62 or older and have yet to book an appointment.

The SHA also is contacting group homes for persons with intellectual disabilities, shelters and other congregate living facilities to talk about vaccination options.