Julie Green, Minister of Health and Social Services issued the following media statement today as the fourth shipment of COVID-19 vaccines is expected to arrive in the Northwest Territories (NWT) later this week:

“Each week, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) reports an updated number of COVID-19 vaccines administered across the territory. As of February 22, 14,520 first doses of the vaccine had been given in the NWT and 1,934 residents have been fully vaccinated with both doses. I believe this data is an important element in our reporting process so NWT residents can understand how far we’ve come and to continue to trust that there is a way out of this pandemic.

“Earlier this month, the Federal government reported expected delays in delivery of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to Canada, which in turn temporarily affected rollout in the NWT.  I am proud to report that despite the reduced third vaccine shipment, the NWT continues to lead the way across the country with delivery of first doses and we are on track to receive enough vaccines from the Federal government for 75% of our adult population by the end of March 2021.

“Later this week, the NWT is expecting a fourth shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine containing 16,200 doses. The fourth vaccine shipment will be used to continue delivering second doses to priority populations in all NWT communities, as well as first doses for those who missed the initial opportunity.

“The fourth shipment will also allow us to start offering the vaccine to residents 18 years of age and older in all NWT communities except for Hay River, Inuvik, and Yellowknife. Priority populations in Hay River, Inuvik, and Yellowknife will be expanded to include additional frontline essential workers who cannot work virtually.

“In total, the territory has received 19,100 doses of the vaccine in three shipments from the Federal government since December 2020. The fourth shipment will bring the total number of doses received by the NWT to 35,300. This is a substantial amount and I’d like to thank the Federal government for supporting the NWT and remaining steadfast in its promise to deliver these vaccines to the territory.

“All NWT communities have been added to the vaccine schedule at www.nthssa.ca/covid-vaccine. This site is updated regularly as new information becomes available. I encourage residents to check it often, and share this information with their friends and family.

“I know many NWT residents are eager to get the vaccine and see things return to the way they were just one year ago. COVID-19 fatigue has set in for many, but I am confident that we remain on the right track and ask NWT residents to hold on a little while longer. Compared to other jurisdictions across Canada, we have been fortunate not to have many cases and are still able to do many of the things we enjoy that are not awarded to residents south of our border.

“Now more than ever, it is important that we continue to follow the advice of the Chief Public Health Officer in order to keep our territory safe – even if you have had one or both doses of the vaccine. Keep gatherings small and spaces large, practice physical distancing, wear a mask to help keep you and others safe,  get tested and stay home if you are feeling sick, and when your turn comes - get vaccinated to protect yourself against COVID-19.”