Last call to have a 2-dose summer, Waterloo region health officials say

A two-dose summer is still possible for people in Waterloo region who haven't received their first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine yet.

Anyone who gets their first dose this week would be able to get a second dose by the end of August, the region says.

The region says both mRNA vaccines — Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech — will be available for people 12 and up at the Cambridge Pinebush vaccination clinic for the next few weeks. People are urged to get whatever vaccine is available to them as both mRNA vaccines are interchangeable.

At the Cambridge clinic, people will be able to get their second dose of the same vaccine they received for their first dose, the region said.

As well, the region is hosting more drive-thru clinics at Bingemans this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. No appointments are necessary.

The region also announced it is closing two clinics: Langs Ayr and Cambridge Pinebush Family Health Team. People are encouraged to instead go to Cambridge Pinebush.

The region notes people 12 and up can get their second dose so long as at least 28 days has passed since their first dose.

"Make it a summer priority to get fully vaccinated," the region said in a release on Monday.

Time to protect yourself is now

Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health reports nearly 70 per cent of people are fully vaccinated and more than 80 per cent have one dose.

Dr. Nicola Mercer, the medical officer of health, told CBC Kitchener-Waterloo in a statement that getting vaccinated means people are "making huge strides toward returning to normal." 

"If you haven't had a vaccination yet, we understand that it might not have been the right time for you. But the time to protect yourself and others is now," she said. "The COVID-19 delta variant is still spreading among unvaccinated people and you and others around you will continue to be at serious risk."

Mercer also thanked people who have gotten the vaccine.

"I encourage you to embrace and enjoy the parts of our region that have reopened while keeping up with the public health measures that have kept us safe. As we begin to reconnect, you can always choose activities that are lower risk, like outdoor gatherings," she said.

Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health reported three new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday.

11 new cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo region

There were 11 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Waterloo region on Tuesday. There were no new deaths reported.

The number of people in the region's three hospitals infectious with COVID-19 rose by one to 17. There were also 11 people in the intensive care unit, although that number includes people who are infectious and people who are considered to be recovering from the virus, but still in need of specialized care.

There were seven active outbreaks:

• Workplaces: Three.
• Child care/summer camp: Two.
• Hospital: One.
• Congregate setting: One.

Grand River Hospital declared a new outbreak on 6 South where two patients, and possibly a third, have contracted the virus. No staff have been impacted by the outbreak, the hospital said.

"The source of acquisition is unclear however, there is a clear epidemiological link between the cases," the hospital said, noting it has implemented enhanced precautions to limit any spread. Staff testing continues and the hospital says that because the risk of spread is low, the unit will not be closed to new admissions "the maintain our capacity to support the needs of critical care patients."

The region also reported 65.92 per cent of people aged 12 and older have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, while 81.55 per cent of people have had their first dose.

Kitchener opens indoor rec facilities

Most indoor pools and recreation facilities are now open in Kitchener. 

Breithaupt Centre, Forest Heights and Lyle Hallman pools are open for various activities including lane swims, family swims and private lessons. Pre-registration is required before people go to the pool. Cameron Heights Pool, however, remains closed.

The Activa Sportsplex is open, although people need to register to use the walking track or to rent ice.

The city said community centres are open for summer camps, youth programming, seniors day programs and emergency social services. The Breithaupt indoor gym will open on Aug. 3.

Outdoor facilities are open with capacity limits, as set out by the province, for spectators or at outdoor pools.