Health Canada has approved the Oxford-AstraZenecar vaccine for use in battling COVID-19. The most flexible of the three vaccines now available in Canada, it will allow for a broader distribution as it only requires refrigeration, while the other vaccines require specialized freezers for transportation and storage. Canada will receive 20 million doses of AstraZeneca between April and September. Health Canada’s chief medical adviser, Dr. Supriya Sharma is hopeful but warns Canadians must still remain vigilant and do their best to follow public health guidelines. Wear a mask, wash your hands and keep a safe physical distance from those not in your household.

This new vaccine will allow physicians to play an important role in the vaccine rollout. ​“Manitoba’s physicians welcome the approval today of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. This approval means Manitobans are one step closer to getting the vaccine from their doctor, a trusted medical professional who knows their health situation best. Hundreds of doctors are registered to offer the vaccine. We are ready.”, President of Doctors Manitoba, Dr. Cory Ballie said Friday morning. ​“Physicians overwhelmingly trust and support the approved COVID-19 vaccines, including the version approved today. They are all safe and highly effective at preventing COVID-19, particularly severe illness, hospitalization and death. We recommend that nearly all Manitobans get immunized as soon as they become eligible.” Dr. Baillie understands that people may have concerns, and encourages Manitobans to contact their doctor to discuss concerns or have any questions answered. ​“We care about the health and well-being of Manitobans, and we want to support everyone on their personal vaccine journey.”