Pfizer Vaccine Arrives in Canada... Vaccinations Expected on Same Day as the US

First Shipment of 30,000 Doses Arrives in Canada... Vaccinations Expected on the 14th
Goal to Vaccinate 3 Million People in 1Q Next Year... Nationwide Vaccination by September

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Canadian government announced that the first batch of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine from the U.S. has arrived in Canada, and that distribution will begin immediately to start vaccinations. Both Canada and the U.S. are expected to begin vaccinations on the 14th (local time). Canada plans to prioritize vaccinating 3 million people in the first quarter of next year and aims to complete nationwide vaccinations by September.

According to foreign media including The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on the 13th via his Twitter account that the first shipment of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine had arrived in Canada. The shipment consists of 30,000 doses, which are scheduled to be transported to 14 vaccination sites across Canada. The Canadian government plans to start vaccinations as early as the 14th, the same day as the U.S. The government intends to provide the vaccine free of charge in most regions.

The Canadian government stated that the 30,000 doses arriving that day will be administered first to priority groups such as healthcare workers and elderly residents in long-term care facilities. The government expects to vaccinate 3 million people by the first quarter of next year and to have most Canadians vaccinated by September. Canada’s total population is approximately 38 million, which is about 10% of the U.S. population of roughly 330 million.

Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized that despite the arrival of the vaccine, vigilance must not be relaxed. Through Twitter, Trudeau stated, "The fight against COVID-19 is not over," urging people to "wear masks, wash hands, and avoid gatherings."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.