Long-term care residents receive second dose of COVID-19 vaccine

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham has reached an important milestone in the fight against COVID-19. As of February 7, all eligible long-term care residents across Durham Region have received their second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Lakeridge Health and Durham Region Health Department worked diligently to prioritize vaccinations for high-risk populations in Durham, after the provincial government announced a short-term disruption in supply on January 16.

Residents at Regionally owned and operated long-term care homes—Fairview Lodge, Hillsdale Estates, Hillsdale Terraces and Lakeview Manor—received their second dose the first week of February, as delivered by Lakeridge Health. Administration of the first dose was completed on January 14, ahead of the January 21 provincial deadline for long-term care home vaccinations.

For information on COVID-19 vaccines, visit durham.ca/COVIDvaccines.

Quotes

“Now that local long-term care residents are protected, we are one step closer to ending our fight against COVID-19. Thank you to the incredible team at Lakeridge Health for everything you have done, and continue to do, to keep our community safe. I encourage everyone to continue following health advice and remain #DurhamStrong.”

- John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO, Region of Durham

“The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected our most vulnerable population who reside in our long-term care homes. This vaccination is a much-needed light at the end of the tunnel, but we must remain vigilant until the vaccine is available for the broader population. Please continue to stay home except for essential purposes, wear a mask, practise physical distancing and hand hygiene.”

- Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health

Quick facts

• The provincial government is leading the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Ontario through a three-phased distribution implementation plan. We are currently in Phase 1 of the provincial plan.
• Durham Region Health Department is awaiting further information and instructions from the province regarding details about the public roll-out of COVID-19 vaccine. For more information, visit durham.ca/COVIDvaccines.
• Regional long-term care homes are following all Ministry regulations and remain committed to providing exceptional care. The health, safety and well-being of residents is the highest priority. Visit durham.ca/LTCupdates for more information.  

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For media inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications.