More than 500,000 vaccine doses have been administered within Island Health. Nanaimo is considered 61 per cent vaccinated. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

covid-19 update

Active COVID-19 cases drop, 500,000 first doses administered in Island Health

May 28, 2021 | 4:22 PM

NANAIMO — The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in Island Health has led to a swift drop in active cases.

Island Health confirmed 83 active cases on Friday, May 28, down from 92 the day before. Active cases in central Vancouver Island fell from 37 to 32, tied with southern Vancouver Island. The northern regions have the remaining 19 active cases.

The 500,000 first dose of vaccine within Island Health was administered on May 27, equalling roughly 65 per cent of the eligible population over the age of 12.

Island Health’s chief medical health officer Dr. Richard Stanwick said it’s an encouraging number but there’s more work to be done.

“I think our big challenge going forward is what are the advantages for younger populations in terms of vaccination. Looking forward, we’ll continue to monitor areas where we’re seeing low rates and ask why people aren’t embracing the vaccine program.”

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Pender, Galiano and Saturna Islands have the highest rate of vaccination within Island Health, with 87 per cent of residents receiving their first dose.

The Oceanside region, heavily concentrated with seniors, is home to 72 per cent of its eligible population to receive at least one shot.

Nanaimo sits with 61 per cent of the eligible population to have its first dose.

Across B.C., slightly more than 3.1 million doses of vaccine have been administered.

A provincial statement confirmed 317 new COVID-19 cases, down from the day before.

The number of active cases continued its downward trend to 3,441, with 292 people in hospital and 79 of those people receiving intensive care.

There were two new fatalities.

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