TORONTO — The Ministry of Health says the administration of the second set of doses of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine is well underway in remote First Nations across Northern Ontario.
The vaccination project, which was launched near the beginning of February, targets residents of 31 fly-in communities and Moosonee.
As of Sunday, more than 15,000 doses had been administered to vulnerable individuals, including 12,660 first doses and 2,664 second doses.
Second doses are currently being provided in six of the communities, with nearly 1,500 people expected to receive their last shots this week.
The end of April is the target for completing the administration of all second doses to people 18 years of age or older.
Vaccination teams under the direction of Ornge include numerous organizations such as the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, various health units, the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority, federal and provincial agencies, and the Red Cross.
In a statement Monday, Health Minister Christine Elliott credited the success of the program to date to the efforts of Indigenous leadership, community members, Ornge and frontline health workers coming together.
The project was co-developed in partnership with Nishnawbe Aski Nation to ensure engagement of Indigenous leadership in how vaccines are offered in their communities.
