The Saskatchewan Health Authority is encouraging all Moose Jaw area residents to take additional precautions in light of increasing community transmission of COVID-19 Variants of Concern (VoC) in the area.
The SHA reports variants of concern mode of transmission and the symptoms are the same as the original strain of COVID-19 virus. However, evidence indicates that these Variants of Concern are 36 to 70 percent more transmissible, meaning it spreads more easily. Older residents and those with underlying health conditions continue to be those at greatest risk of severe illness and death.
The current VoCs in Saskatchewan are B1.1.7 (first identified in the United Kingdom) and B1.351 (first identified in South Africa). All current COVID-19 testing in Saskatchewan will detect all variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is reminding South West and South East Saskatchewan residents that COVID-19 is still prevalent and to book their vaccine appointments when their age categories open.
The patient booking system is available to all citizens age 62 and over, including those living in border communities and those without Saskatchewan health cards, like new immigrants to our province. The tool can be accessed directly at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19-vaccine, or residents can call 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-727-5829). Family and friends who aren’t yet eligible can also book on behalf of someone who is eligible, either online or by phone.
