The first doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Quesnel.

Nearly 100 residents of Dunrovin Park Lodge were vaccinated at an immunization clinic on Tuesday, Jan. 25, according to Northern Health.

“Additional immunization clinics for assisted living residents and staff will occur this week,” the health authority said in an email.

Vaccines developed by both Pfizer and Moderna are approved for use in Canada, both requiring two doses. While both drug manufacturers suggest roughly 21 to 28 days between each dose, the B.C. government has said it will be extending that gap – to roughly 42 days – so more people can receive the first dose amid limited supply.

Limited availability means most residents will not be eligible for the vaccine until later in the year.

Health care workers and those living and working in seniors’ homes are set to receive the vaccine in Phase 1 of the government’s plan. Other vulnerable populations are set to get their shots in February and March, with the general population anticipated to be inoculated by September.

READ MORE: Vaccine CEO ‘very, very clear’ that Canada’s contracts will be honoured: Trudeau

Quesnel Cariboo Observer