By: Thomas I. Likness
EBC News Service

(Eagle News) — Three Canadian provinces have lowered the age eligibility for the AstraZeneca covid-19 vaccine to 40.

Up until today, Ontario, Alberta and Manitoba would only administer the vaccine to people between the ages of 55 and 64 as the federal government continued to look into reports of rare blood clots in some people who received the inoculants.

“As we continue to fight COVID-19, we are doing everything possible to get as many vaccines into arms as quickly and safely as possible,” Ontario’s Chief medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams said Monday in a statement. “By extending vaccination eligibility for the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at pharmacies and primary care settings to individuals aged 40 and over, Ontario will be able to offer the protection of the vaccine to more Ontarians earlier than anticipated.”

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney last night said the minimum age for receiving the vaccine would be lowered to 40.

“This means 575,425 more Albertans can get vaccinated,” said Kenney.

In Manitoba, vaccine team medical lead Dr. Joss Reimer said he continues to believe any risks from the vaccine are outweighed by the benefit of being immunized against Covid-19.

“Expanding the criteria will help us reach more Manitobans, particularly those who may face challenges or face barriers in going to a supersite or pop-up clinic,” said Reimer.

Prior to the change, pharmacies were complaining there was little demand for the vaccine. That;s because of the narrow age range as well as hesitancy on the part of some people to be immunized with the AstraZeneca product.

Other provinces are expected to follow suit.
(Eagle News Service)