Seniors in residential and residential centers will be able to receive a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Health Minister Christian Dubé is due to make the announcement at 1 p.m. this afternoon.
This is a turnaround since the Committee on Immunization of Quebec (CIQ) did not recommend in August the inoculation of a third dose to residents of long-term care centers (CHSLD). The effectiveness of the two doses was then between 93 and 97%. The CIQ had, however, recommended the vaccination of immunocompromised people, such as those who have received a transplant, who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment or those who take drugs that weaken their immune system.
However, the CIQ noted in its preliminary opinion the importance of continuing close monitoring of the incidence of the Delta variant in CHSLDs. According to data cited by the committee, 91% of CHSLD residents had received two doses of vaccine as of August 17, while 80% of health network employees who work there had complete vaccination coverage.
As of September 26, Quebec had eleven COVID-19 outbreaks in CHSLDs and 23 in private seniors’ residences.
Further details will follow.
With Marie-Ève Cousineau
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