The Sunshine Coast reported 10 new cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 14 to 20.
During the same timeframe, Powell River reported one new case while the Howe Sound area reported 28.
As of Nov. 22, the vaccination rate for eligible Coast residents 12 and older is 88 per cent for the first dose and 85 for the second.
Residents in the 12 to17 age category have almost caught up to the vaccination status of those ages 18 to 49. For the first dose, 83 per cent of both age categories have received one shot. Of those 18 to 49 years old, 78 per cent have had two doses, compared to 77 per cent for the younger category.
In the 50-plus group, 91 per cent of Coast residents have had one jab and 89 per cent have had two.
New to the BC Centre for Disease Control’s weekly statistics, the percentage of Coast residents aged 70 years and older who have had their third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine is 31 per cent.
Those booster doses are recommended for people 70 and older between four and six months after their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Residents of that age and those who live in long-term care and assisted living facilities are considered to be at greater risk, because of waning protection based on age, overall health and the ability to mount an antibody response.
Seniors must be registered with the Get Vaccinated provincial registration system with an up-to-date immunization record in order to receive a booking invitation for the third dose. Having the BC Vaccine Card or passport does not mean you are registered. For more information or to verify registration, call 1-833-838-2323.
For housebound seniors, vaccines are available through a home visit from the health authority. Those who have already received their vaccine at home will be contacted directly by the health authority within two weeks of Nov. 22.
