It's not to everyone's liking but last week's reports of COVID-19 vaccine clinics show plenty of activity in Elliot Lake.
This weekend, Dr. Cathy Groh of the Elliot Lake Family Health Team (ELFHT) posted the following on social media:
"On (Thursday) June 24th, 369 people were vaccinated at the Collins Hall with Moderna and on June 25th, Pfizer and Moderna were used to vaccinate 351 people.
"The original plan had been to give Pfizer on the 24th and Moderna on the 25th, however due to a delay in Pfizer shipments, Moderna was sent to Elliot Lake first, and unexpectedly, a supply of Pfizer was sent for the Friday clinic.
"Other places in Ontario have had similar experiences this week. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are both mRNA vaccines. Mixing these two brands has been found to be safe and effective.
"Getting a second dose of either vaccine will decrease a person's risk of hospitalization and death and help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
"For this reason, people are being offered either Pfizer or Moderna as a second dose if the vaccine received as a first dose isn't available.
"People continue to be called to book their second doses at the Collins Hall. First doses remain a priority and a drop-in clinic for first doses will be held Tuesday, June 29th from 5-7 p. m. at the Collins Hall.
One questioner wanted to know about call backs for second doses.
Q: If you got (your) first shot at Collins Hall will you be notified for your second or do you need to call and make an appointment? Still unclear about this, please help.
Dr. Groh: You will be contacted. At this point we have been calling people who had a first dose in March or early April. If you think you have been missed you can contact the clinic at 705-461-8882."
At Shoppers Drug Mart on Ontario Ave., Pharmacist / Associate owner Ana Lees reports a robusts vaccination schedule.
"Vaccines are still going strong," she wrote. "Last week we did 480. We have a little bit of AstraZeneca left and have a Pfizer clinic day Monday and Wednesday this week. Moderna should also be arriving this week. mRNA vaccines are interchangeable and second dose AstraZeneca can get AZ or mRNA, all pending availability.
"Eligibility for second dose starting June 28 is anyone who is past 21 days for Pfizer and 28 days for Moderna. If people are still looking for first doses they should call the pharmacy because we still have availability this week.
"Appointments can be made by calling the pharmacy or coming in to book in person.
"We have no link with other pharmacies for booking or APH/ ELFHT. We are linked however for reporting by COVAXon," concluded Lees.