The Pfizer and BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for national use by Health Canada.
Canada has purchased 20-million doses of the Pfizer vaccine, which requires people to receive two doses each, and has the option to buy 56-million more.
Peterborough Public Health Medical Officer of Health Dr. Rosana Salvaterra says the two doses must be given at a minimum of 21 days apart.
Audio PlayerSalvaterra adds it doesn’t take long for immunity to begin to build, even after the first dose.
Audio PlayerThe landmark decision means up to 249,000 doses will be received this month, with the first shipment set to arrive in 14 locations across the country next week. Salvaterra explains how the vaccine actually works, and how it protects your body from COVID-19.
Audio PlayerHealth Canada’s Chief Medical Health Advisory Dr. Supriya Sharma says Canadians should be comfortable getting the vaccine.
