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# Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services Pauline Frost on the arrival of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine in Yukon

Minister Pauline Frost released the following statement:

“The first shipment of the Moderna vaccine arrived safely in Whitehorse today. This is a turning point in Yukon’s fight against COVID-19 and is a positive way to end 2020.

I can assure Yukoners that we are ready to start rolling out the vaccine very soon. A team of dedicated health professionals is undergoing training on how to safely store, handle and deliver the vaccine. This training will ensure that they can safely administer the vaccine to eligible Yukoners.

Vaccinations will start next week guided by our vaccine strategy. We will be offering vaccines to our highest priority groups, starting with long-term care residents and staff. As in other jurisdictions across the country, these individuals are some of the most vulnerable to COVID-19. We have our dedicated public health experts and continuing care staff to thank for keeping these Yukoners safe over the course of the pandemic.

The first delivery included 7,200 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. We anticipate further shipments will arrive in January. Yukon will receive enough doses to vaccinate 75 per cent of the eligible adult population in early 2021.

Although the vaccine’s arrival is incredible news for Yukon, we need to continue practising the Safe 6 and wearing a mask. We cannot let our guard down and must continue to be vigilant against possible spread of the virus.”

Media contact

Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca

News release #:
20-391
Related information:
Yukon's COVID-19 Vaccine Strategy