The Windsor-Essex region has hit a major milestone with over 200,000 people vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
As of Monday morning, 203,246 people or 59.7 per cent of adults in the region have received at least one shot. Only 14, 818 people or 3.4 per cent of the total population have received both doses of the vaccine.
“We are inching closer and closer to the finish line, and I am confident that if we continue to vaccinate at our current rate, we will have a good summer in Windsor and Essex County,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.
Dr. Ahmed is reminding residents that it takes two weeks for a person’s body to develop an immune response after receiving the vaccine. He also indicated that people should continue to wear a mask and follow other public health guidelines after getting vaccinated.
“You still have to follow these public health measures, but soon enough, we will be in a position to give you a different message. But, until we do that please continue to do your part and continue to keep yourself safe,” said Dr. Ahmed.
At 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, the Windsor Essex County Health Unit will open its booking system to all residents 18 years and older. Residents 16 and older who work in a field listed in Group 2 of essential workers, like those working in grocery stores, will also be able to book an appointment starting tomorrow.
“The more people are vaccinated, we can fight this virus off. We can stop the transmission. We can get back to our normal. It’s absolutely critical that if you are eligible right now, please do not wait and get your vaccine as soon as possible,” said Dr. Ahmed.
Around 20,000 vaccines are expected to be administered this week.
The health unit reported 24 new COVID-19 infections in the region on Monday. Among the new cases, 14 are close contacts of confirmed cases, and five are community-acquired. Case and contact management staff continue to investigate five cases.
There are now 362 active cases in the region, and 212 of those involve a variant of concern.
