As vaccinations against COVID-19 continue to slowly progress, the results are helping reduce the number of weekly detected local cases.
The Tri-Cities recorded a total of 114 infections between Oct. 10 and 16, which represents a 10 per cent decrease compared to 127 found in the previous count (Oct. 3 to 9).
The figures are part of the BC Centre for Disease Control's (BCCDC) latest Geographic Distribution of COVID-19 by Local Health Area of Case Residence data.
It also marks the second consecutive drop in Tri-City week-over-week COVID-19 local health area cases, and brings the region back to a four-week low when 111 were found between Sept. 12 and 18.
As of yesterday (Oct. 20), the Tri-Cities has averaged an 86 per cent double-vaccination rate against COVID-19, as well as a 90.2 per cent single-vaxxed average.
Places like the Tri-Cities, Burnaby (107), Delta (64), South Surrey/White Rock (58) and New Westminster (39) have all been trending downward in local health cases.
However, communities in Fraser Health's eastern portion have become new hotspots for the virus, which has resulted in public health restrictions.
Abbotsford (288) and Chilliwack (215) are of main concern in the lower mainland; though Surrey still has the highest weekly total of any other B.C. region with 318.
The Fraser East region is currently only allowed to host indoor events with 50 per cent capacity, in which patrons must be fully vaccinated and must wear masks in all indoor workplaces, unless otherwise exempted, among others.
THIRD DOSES
Meanwhile, immuno-compromised Tri-City residents are being encouraged to get a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine for better protection, as per Dr. Henry.
These jabs are available at the Coquitlam Central Station Park and Ride overflow lot, where walk-ins remain available for first, second or third doses.
B.C.'s GetVaccinated portal is also sending appointment invitations by phone, text or email to those eligible, and it must be at least four weeks apart from the second dose.
The Central Station site's operating hours are as follows
- 2900 Barnet Hwy.
- 9:45 a.m. to 8 p.m. = Monday to Friday
- 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. = Saturdays, Sundays and holidays
- Entrance off Mariner Way – east side of Rona. Proceed down the ramp and turn right
- The address will direct you to the main lot on the left but COVID-19 Services are located in the overflow lot to the right
- Do not cut through the Rona parking lot. Please follow the signs
A full eligibility list for those looking for a third vaccine dose is available on the BCCDC's website.
