Honourable Adrian Dix
Minister of Health
Room 337, Parliament Buildings
Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X4
Dear Minister Dix,
Re: Expedited second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for cancer patients
Thank you for your ongoing service to British Columbians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
I also thank you for prioritizing cancer patients for their first doses. As they are recognized as a priority, I am writing today to implore you to reconsider the timing of second doses, specifically for cancer patients. I write on behalf of the many cancer patients across B.C. I have heard from, whose physicians advise them that they would greatly benefit from receiving their second dose within the manufacturers’ recommended dose schedule of either 21 days (Pfizer) or 28 days (Moderna).
After having examined these letters, and in light of an increased and more predictable supply of vaccine, I ask that you revaluate your position on the schedule of second doses.
Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario have all considered available evidence and research and have said yes to prioritizing second doses of COVID-19 vaccines for cancer patients. On May 10, asked you for this same consideration here in British Columbia. I’m sure we can all agree that we need to look after our most vulnerable, and this means ensuring that our vaccine rollout in B.C. considers cancer patients’ varying needs and greater levels of risk associated with contracting COVID-19.
I respectfully ask for your consideration in granting cancer patients the opportunity for timely second doses for their vaccines. Thank you for your consideration in this matter, and I look forward to hearing back from you.
Kind regards,
Renee Merrifield
MLA Kelowna-Mission
Official Opposition Critic for Health
