mRNA Vaccines Interchangeable at Clinics Beginning this Week

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit opened eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine second doses on June 19. This aligns with provincial direction and expands the eligibility for those who received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine on or before May 9 to book for their second dose of an mRNA vaccine at mass vaccination clinics, pharmacies and primary care providers.

In addition, with the exception of youth 12-17 years old, anyone who books a first dose or second dose of an mRNA will only be guaranteed an mRNA vaccine, which could be either Moderna or Pfizer. Based on the interchangeability of the vaccines and the current vaccine supply, the Health Unit cannot guarantee a specific mRNA vaccine. This will impact mass vaccination clinics beginning Wednesday, June 23.

A shipment of Pfizer to the region has been delayed, so the Health Unit is closely monitoring the supply and will be providing Moderna as the primary vaccine at upcoming clinics. It is no longer able to match first and second doses.

The following provides a summary of what residents can expect at mass vaccination clinics across Windsor and Essex County:

• Those 18+ will receive an mRNA vaccine (Moderna) for first doses.
• Those 12-17 years will be receiving an mRNA vaccine approved for this age group (as of today only Pfizer vaccine is approved for use in 12-17 years of age group) for first and second doses.
• Those who received a first dose of an mRNA vaccine will receive an mRNA vaccine as their second dose (either Moderna or Pfizer).
• Those who received their first dose of AstraZeneca eight weeks ago will receive an mRNA vaccine (Moderna) for their second dose.

Residents are reminded that protection from the vaccine takes 14 days from the time of vaccination. Please continue to practise public health measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community:

• Maintain a two-metre distance from others.
• Limit your contacts to your household only.
• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Use a medical or non-medical mask (e.g., cloth) in public settings.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay home and do not go to work or school if you are sick. 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine booking and eligibility, please visit http://www.wevax.ca.

For comprehensive information about COVID-19 vaccines including facts, myths, FAQs, vaccination statistics and more, please visit wechu.org. You can also subscribe to receive email updates from the Windsor Essex County Health Unit about COVID-19 vaccines.