**** HEALTH/WELLNESS Media Release
AstraZeneca Vaccine Second Dose Rescheduling
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Nova Scotians who received their first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in the province on or before April 21 will be able to reschedule their second dose appointment before June 30.
Rescheduling notices will be sent this week by email to the account provided at the time of booking. Anyone who did not provide an email must call the toll-free line at 1-833-797-7772 to reschedule or request an email address be added.
When rescheduling the second dose, people will select a new date and time at any clinic across the province that has an available appointment.
People who received a first dose of AstraZeneca can schedule a second dose of either the AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, but Nova Scotia is recommending Pfizer or Moderna. A recent study shows that a second dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) after a first dose of AstraZeneca results in a better immune response than two doses of AstraZeneca. The province’s recommendation is based on this emerging evidence and the risk of rare but serious blood clotting events associated with AstraZeneca.
Rescheduling notices for second dose appointments will continue to be sent over the following weeks as vaccine supply is received.
All Nova Scotians are encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as they are eligible.
The province’s goal continues to be to immunize as many Nova Scotians as quickly as possible to reach a high rate of population immunity.
First dose COVID-19 vaccination appointments must be made online at http://www.novascotia.ca/vaccination or by phone at 1-833-797-7772.
Appointments cannot be booked directly through a community clinic, pharmacy or physician. Walk-ins will be turned away.
Quick Facts:
— about 32,900 Nova Scotians received their first dose of AstraZeneca in the province on or before April 21
Additional Resources:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine: http://www.novascotia.ca/coronavirus/vaccine
Coronavirus (COVID-19) book your vaccination appointment: http://www.novascotia.ca/vaccination
Rural Transportation Association: http://ruralrides.ca/
