Shoppers Drug Mart in Vermilion has the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine available and is offering a vaccine blitz for all residents 18 years of age and over who wish to receive their vaccine.
The blitz began on May 24 and will continue until the Moderna supply they have runs out or until they end the campaign. Residents of Vermilion and surrounding areas can call the pharmacy at 780-853-5672 to book an appointment for an available time slot during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the location is also accepting walk-ins when time permits.
Vish Pandya, local Pharmacist Owner, says they received a large shipment of the Moderna vaccine last week and with a significant decrease of phone calls to book first vaccine shots, they are hoping to encourage residents 18 years and older to start booking their appointment.
“If you look at the stats for Vermilion, I think the younger population is still at the 20 - 21 per cent so we wanted to make sure that people are getting motivated and encouraged. We want to send the message out that we have supplies in and we are welcoming them to come,” said Pandya.
As the Moderna vaccine is only approved for ages 18+ Pandya stated that they have a lot of people on the waitlist for ages 12 years to 18 years and that when they did receive the Pfizer vaccine there was an excellent response.
“The children and their Moms and Dads were very happy when we received the Pfizer vaccine because they were looking for the Pfizer for a long time especially within Vermilion,” explained Pandya.
Pandya says that in order to get the community back to normal they need to vaccinate as many people as possible quickly.
“Pharmacies have been a part of the solution for months now, and the feedback from patients has been outstanding. Our store still has capacity and availability and we are encouraging those eligible to book an appointment or visit us now,” commented Pandya.
Anyone 18 and above can receive the Moderna vaccine no matter what their medical condition is, vaccinations are now available to Albertans; including pregnant women who have been eligible since Stage 2B.
“It is all about the risk vs benefits and the complications that could come from contracting COVID. When people have doubts we always recommend them to talk to their pharmacist or physician just to be on the safer side, and they will guide you through why it is important for you to take or not take the vaccine,” explained Pandya.