Vaccine appointments for those 30+ are opening up Wednesday, May 12 as the province continues its roll-out of three approved COVID-19 shots. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

GOOD DAY

Vaccine appointments expand, Island Health posts lowest case increase in two months

May 12, 2021 | 4:17 PM

NANAIMO — Cases of COVID-19 throughout Island Health continue to come, but at a minimal rate.

Just 13 new cases were confirmed on Wednesday, May 12 by the health authority. It marks the lowest daily increase since early March.

Active cases, as reported by the health authority, fell to 144 including 50 in the central Island region. Seventy-two cases are in the southern portion of Island health and 22 in the north.

There is a data discrepancy between Island Health and the province, based on the timing of COVID-19 results. NanaimoNewsNOW reports local verified data from Island Health.

Across B.C., an even 600 cases were announced in a joint statement from health minister Adrian Dix and provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry.

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The addition is in line with a rapidly falling seven day average of 608 cases, as of Tuesday May 11.

Active cases saw another drop, down just over 100 cases to 5,887. Of those battling COVID-19, 423 are receiving care in hospital including 141 in ICU.

Hospitalizations remained relatively unchanged from Tuesday.

One additional COVID-19 related death was reported by the province, the 1,625th in B.C. through the pandemic.

The province said those aged 30 and up will be able to book their appointment at mass vaccination clinics beginning later on Wednesday.

“Text and email invitations will be going out shortly, so take two minutes to get yourself registered,” the statement read.

The province also said it would be reserving supply of the AstraZeneca vaccine for second doses only with existing bookings through pharmacies continuing, however no further bookings would be made.

“”We are also awaiting the findings of studies currently underway on interchangeability of COVID-19 vaccines, as well as guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. This will help determine our approach and options for second doses.”

Several provinces have expressed concern over rare blood clot issues related to the AstraZeneca product, with Ontario stopping delivery of it for that reason.

Others ceased its use due to supply issues.

Around 2.28 million doses of vaccine have been administered in the province to date.

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