Covid-19 vaccine shots will be available to more people later this week.
The GNWT created 500 more appointment slots on Feb. 11, 12 and 13 and expanded the rules for who is eligible for a jab.
The appointments will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Appointments can be made online. Residents who are unable to use the online booking form can call Yellowknife Public Health to book an appointment at (867) 767-9120.
The new criteria focus on medical conditions. Anyone 18 or older with at least one of the following ailments can apply for an appointment:
- lung disease (COPD, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, moderate to severe asthma)
- heart disease (cardiomyopathy, pulmonary hypertension, congenital heart disease, heart failure, coronary heart disease),
- uncontrolled or untreated hypertension (high blood pressure),
- diabetes with poorly controlled sugars, moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (especially those with kidney transplants or requiring dialysis)
- moderate to severe chronic liver disease (including fatty liver disease and cirrhosis), dementia and stroke
- Immunocompromised from underlying medical conditions or medications
- Living with obesity (BMI of 40 or higher)
- With an approval letter from the chief public health officer.
- Resident Rotational Workers 18 years of age and older (please bring company ID).
- Mine Workers whose job site includes workers from outside the NWT.
- Medevac Pilots or Flight Crew (NWT residents only) .
- Winter Road Support Staff who interact directly with staff from outside the NWT.
- Members of the Canadian Armed Forces
- Taxi drivers
Residents at least 60 years old remain eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine.
Appointments can be made online. Residents who are unable to use the online booking form can call Yellowknife Public Health to book an appointment at (867) 767-9120.
Once appointments are full in the online booking system, the NTHSSA will post a public notice. If people are unable to get an appointment but fall under one of the expanded priority groups, they should email CPHO@gov.nt.ca instead of calling Yellowknife Public Health.
More appointments will be opened up based on vaccine supply after existing slots are filled.