The Ontario government has announced plans to accelerate the vaccinations of residents in long-term care, First Nations elder care homes and high risk retirement homes.
The province says that the new target date for these groups is February 5th, which is sooner than the previous goal of February 15th.
In order to ensure second doses of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine for those who have received their first shot, the province will maintain the maximum 21-27 day interval for long-term care, high risk retirement and First Nations elder care homes, and up to 42 days between the doses for all other groups.
These changes are being made due to a temporary delay in the shipment of Pfizer-BioNtech vaccines.
Premier Doug Ford says that it is crucial for senior citizens to receive priority for doses.
"I know this will mean that some people may have to reschedule their vaccine appointments, but it is critical that our most vulnerable seniors receive the protection they need as soon as possible."
Ontario will not be receiving a shipment of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine this week, and during the first weeks of February, just over 26,000 doses will be received.
Additionally, the province also extended the state of emergency for 14 more days.
Unless extended further, the provincial state of emergency will remain in effect until February 9th.
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