NWT to Rally Public in “Drive to 75 %” Vaccine Initiative
Publication Date
News Release
Residents in the Northwest Territories (NWT) are being encouraged to make the push to reach 75 percent uptake for full vaccination (2 doses) in the territory. Higher vaccination rates will help to ensure protection for individuals, families, and communities as fall approaches and the Delta variant of COVID-19 becomes more prevalent across the country.
The “Drive to 75%” will include additional vaccine clinic opportunities, and ongoing promotions through the month of August.
In preparation for this initiative, vaccine supplies have been mobilized in every NWT community and access to the vaccine is now as simple as calling local health centres, or using the COVID Vaccine Request form to get a vaccination. For communities that have a rotational healthcare provider, residents who call requesting a vaccine will be put on a list for the next visit of a provider.
Anyone who wishes to receive more information about COVID-19 vaccine safety or who needs assistance in making a vaccine appointment is encouraged to reach out via the COVID Vaccine Request form or by contacting their local healthcare provider.
The “Drive to 75” campaign encourages residents to get fully vaccinated to protect themselves and all NWT residents as the fall respiratory illness season approaches.
The easing of COVID-19 restrictions means that there is more chance COVID-19 will come into the NWT. It also increases the likelihood of outbreaks occurring in unvaccinated individuals, which is where most new cases are occurring in other parts of Canada and abroad. We encourage all residents to speak with their friends, family, and colleagues about getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Pushing to improve overall community protection against COVID-19 is one of the most important steps we can take together to keep NWT residents safe and to get back to the things that we love.
It is important to remember that the 75 percent coverage is our minimum target for protection. Higher vaccine uptake will help better protect everyone in the community including children under 12 years of age and those who are unable to be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.
Quote(s)
“As we move towards further relaxation of public health measures, it becomes more important than ever to protect yourself against COVID-19. Getting a vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk, both of severe health outcomes and of being a transmitter of COVID-19. A simple shot can help you protect yourself, your loved ones and your community.”
- Julie Green, Minister of Health and Social Services
Quick facts
Since January 12, 2021, the GNWT has been offering vaccine to individuals who are immunosuppressed, have an autoimmune condition, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding as long as the risks and benefits were discussed with the health care provider first.
On May 6, 2021, the GNWT began vaccinating adolescents aged 12-17 with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine just one day after Health Canada approval for those 12 years of age and older.