Less COVID-19 vaccine than expected arriving in B.C.; 546 new cases reported

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — B.C. is making adjustments to ensure long-term care residents will get their second shots of the COVID-19 vaccine after another possible setback from Pfizer, as the province records 546 new infections Thursday.

A statement from the Ministry of Health explains it is still determining how B.C.’s distribution will be impacted, but based on “early indications” the number of trays of COVID-19 vaccines went from 557 to 485 trays.

“Despite this latest delay, we are still confident that we will be receiving a significant amount of the Pfizer vaccine starting in the middle of February,” the statement reads.

The ministry believes the latest news from Pfizer will only impact the first phase of distribution, and that the delay will be made up at the end of February and into March.

“This means we can use what little supply we have right now to finish our long-term care home immunizations and to address the outbreaks that are happening in our hospitals and our communities,” the statement reads.

The province has already temporarily extended the maximum amount of time between the two necessary shots from 35 days to 42 to make of for a shortage in shipments.

To date, 127,255 doses have been given to British Columbians.

12 COVID-19 deaths, two outbreaks

In a joint statement from Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix, they report that 12 more people have lost their lives to the virus.

A downward trend in the number of patients in hospital continued Thursday, decreasing by 12. Of the 291 patients, 75 are in intensive care.

While there are new outbreaks at Bradley Centre and Concord by the Sea, others have ended at Chilliwack General Hospital, KinVillage, KinVillage West Court and Rideau Retirement Residence.

Henry and Dix repeat their calls to take responsibility for stopping the spread of COVID-19.

“In recent weeks, we have seen an increase in community clusters and exposures in businesses, and we remind business owners now is not the time to let things slip. WorkSafeBC and environmental health teams have stepped up inspections and will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of communities, including shutting a business if required,” the statement reads.

“The ongoing risks and challenges that have come with this pandemic have put a strain on all of us. While much focus is on our physical health, it is equally important to take care of our mental and emotional well-being. In particular, let’s ensure we connect our friends and family – young and old – who may be struggling, to let them know they are not alone and support is available.”

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