At a press conference in Fredericton on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Minister of Health Dorothy Shephard and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jennifer Russell announced that people 65 and older may now schedule an appointment online to receive their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine through Vitalité or Horizon health networks or by contacting a participating pharmacy.

“I encourage everyone who is eligible for a vaccine and wishes to receive one to make an appointment,” said Shephard. “And if you can help someone else make an appointment, please do so. Assisting a loved one or neighbour so they can get vaccinated doesn’t just help that person, it helps us move forward as a province.”

There will be 19,000 spaces available at clinics organized by the two health networks over the next two weeks. People in this age group, or a caregiver or family member calling on their behalf, can make the appointment.

“If you are booking through a pharmacy, please be patient,” said Dr. Russell. “Many pharmacies are already fully booked for appointments through the next few weeks. Everyone is working hard to ensure eligible New Brunswickers are vaccinated in a timely and efficient manner.”

Dr. Russell also confirmed that there has now been a case of a rare blood clot associated with low platelets known as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) in a New Brunswicker between 30-39 who received the AstraZeneca vaccine. The individual received a dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine in mid-March, prior to the advice issued by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) on March 29 indicating that the AstraZeneca vaccine is not recommended for people under 55. 

“While every adverse reaction is unfortunate, it is important to remember that these blood clots are extremely rare,” Dr. Russell said. “The vaccine helps prevent the much higher risks associated with COVID-19 infections.”

The person has since received treatment and has recovered. The AstraZeneca vaccine will continue to be given to New Brunswickers 55 and older.