COVID-19 Update For June 16: 922,335 Vaccines Administered, 74 New Cases, 76 Recoveries, Two New Deaths

Vaccines Reported

An additional 12,013 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 922,335.

The 12,013 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 151; Far North Central, 3; Far North East, 246; North West, 743; North Central, 805; North East, 206; Saskatoon, 3,245; Central West, 318; Central East, 568; Regina, 3,542; South West, 253; South Central, 1,030; and South East, 633.  There were 270 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Seventy-nine per cent of those over the age of 40 have received their first dose. Seventy-four per cent of those 30+ have received their first dose.  Sixty-nine per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose, while sixty-seven per cent of those 12+ have also received their first dose.

Note: Age is calculated on the date of the most recent dose.  Someone age 69 at their first dose and 70 at their second will now be counted in the 70-79 group for both doses, resulting in a decrease in the 60-69 first dose number. 

All vaccine administration details for the province, including first and second doses, can be found at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness.

Second Doses Available to 50+, Drops to Age 45+ Tomorrow

Effective tomorrow at 8 am, second dose vaccination eligibility will open to residents age 45+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before May 1. 

Currently, all residents 12+ can receive their first dose and second dose vaccinations are open to residents 50+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before April 15.  Individuals diagnosed with or being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will receive a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose. 

Second doses are also available in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District to all residents 18+, based on the product’s recommended interval from their first dose.

Eligibility to book for second doses is based on age or date of first dose.  Residents who meet at least one of these criteria are eligible for their second dose.  

When all persons 12 and older become eligible to receive their second doses starting June 24, vaccinations will be provided based on the manufacturer interval.  For Moderna, this is 28 days after first dose.  For Pfizer, this is 21 days after first dose.  Note that residents may receive their second doses up to four months following their first dose but it’s highly recommended that you receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible.  

A limited number of first doses of AstraZeneca have been administered since May 5 to those individuals who have contraindication for mRNA vaccines.  If you received AstraZeneca as recommended by your health care provider after May 5, arrangements will be made to administer your second dose based on current, recommended intervals.

Remember that while one dose of COVID-19 vaccine provides good protection against transmission, two doses are required for optimal protection, particularly against the Delta variant.  Please receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible and maintain all public health measures until at least two weeks after your second dose.

Vaccination appointments can be booked through the Saskatchewan Health Authority online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 or by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).

A map of participating pharmacies across the province is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies.  This online tool includes links to pharmacy booking websites and provides details on the vaccine brand being offered at each location.

For street addresses and hours of operation for drive-thru and walk-in clinics, see www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vax.

As the SHA is encouraging first dose vaccinations, please review clinic information carefully to ensure you are selecting the right clinic for you. 

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.  If you do not know the date of your first dose or have misplaced the wallet card provided at the time of your first dose, 1-833-SaskVax can provide you with that date, or check your Immunization History on your MySaskHealthRecord account.

There may be clinic options outside your community and residents are encouraged to consider those alternate locations for immunization.  Additional stops should be avoided if possible when travelling to another community for an appointment.  More clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received. 

During your second-dose appointment, the clinic or pharmacy will validate the timing and brand of your first dose to ensure you are receiving your second dose within the recommended timeframe.  The type of vaccine available at each location will be advertised.  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Daily COVID-19 Statistics

There are 74 new cases of COVID-19 to report in Saskatchewan on June 16, bringing the provincial total to 48,125 cases. 

The new cases are located in the following zones: Far North West, 1; North West, 4; North Central, 5; North East, 4; Saskatoon, 16; Central West, 4; Central East, 6; Regina, 29; South West, 1; South Central, 1; and South East, 3.  

Nine residents tested out of province were added to the Far North East, 2; North East, 1; Saskatoon, 3; South Central, 1; and South East, 1, zones. One case is pending residence information.  One case deemed to be an out-of-province resident was removed from the Far North East count.

Two news deaths were reported today.  One death was reported in the 80+ age group from the North West Zone and one death was reported in the 70 to 79 age group from the Central East zone.

Recoveries total 46,837 and 726 cases are considered active.

There are 92 people in hospital.  Eighty people are receiving inpatient care: North West, 10; North Central, 8; North East, 1; Saskatoon, 28; Central East, 4; Regina, 22; South West, 2; South Central, 3; and South East; 2.  Twelve people are in intensive care: North West, 1; North Central, 1; Saskatoon, 6; and Regina, 4. 

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 case number is 72 (5.9 per 100,000).  This is the lowest seven-day average since November 1, 2020.  A chart comparing today’s average to data collected over the past several months is available at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness/covid-19/seven-day-average-of-new-covid-cases.

There were 2,140 COVID-19 tests processed in Saskatchewan on June 15, 2021.

To date, 893,330 COVID-19 tests have been processed in Saskatchewan.  As of June 14, 2021, when other provincial and national numbers were available, Saskatchewan’s per capita rate was 751,913 tests performed per million population.  The national rate was 942,784.

As of June 15, 11,787 variants of concern have been identified by screening in Saskatchewan, reported in the following zones: Far North West, 286; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 80; North West, 754; North Central, 594; North East, 79; Saskatoon, 2,037; Central West, 129; Central East, 631; Regina, 4,747; South West, 398; South Central, 870; and South East, 1,113.  There are 68 screened VOCs with residence pending.

New lineage results were reported for five Variants of Concern today.  Of the 6,443 VOCs with lineages identified by whole genome sequencing in Saskatchewan, 6,134 are Alpha (B.1.1.7), 231 are Gamma (P.1), 68 are Delta (B.1.617.2) and 10 are Beta (B.1.351).

Confirmed variant of concern cases may appear in both columns on the website, depending on testing for that case.  Adding the cases identified by screening and those that have received whole genome sequencing may result in double-counting individual cases.

Further statistics on the total number of cases among health care workers, breakdowns of total cases by source of infection, age, sex and region, total tests to date, per capita testing rate and current numbers of confirmed variants of concern can be found at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-cases.

It may not be allergies or a cold.  Get tested for COVID-19.

Fever? Cough and headache? Fatigued or experiencing shortness of breath?  Do not “tough it out” or assume it’s allergies.  Stay home and seek a COVID-19 test.  Testing remains one of the most important tools to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in your community.  Even if you have been recently vaccinated, it can take up to three weeks for your immune system to respond.  Vaccines are not a cure preventing all possible transmission and you remain at risk of contracting COVID-19 during that time. 

COVID-19 testing is available to all residents.  You can still receive a referral for COVID-19 testing through HealthLine 811 or a health care provider, and drive-thru testing sites are available without a referral seven days a week in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.  Information on symptoms to watch for and how to get tested is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-testing.

General COVID-19 Information

General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Know your risk.  Keep yourself and others safe www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/about-covid-19/know-your-risk.


COVID-19 Update For June 15: 910,322 Vaccines Administered, 47 New Cases, 95 Recoveries, Four New Deaths

Vaccines Reported

An additional 6,880 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 910,322.

The 6,880 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 12; Far North East, 210; North West, 708; North Central, 487; North East, 59; Saskatoon, 2,886; Central West, 108; Central East, 352; Regina, 1,560; South West, 32; South Central, 119; and South East, 119.  There were 228 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Seventy-nine per cent of those over the age of 40 have received their first dose. Seventy-four per cent of those 30+ have received their first dose.  Sixty-nine per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose, while sixty-seven per cent of those 12+ have also received their first dose.

Note: Age is calculated on the date of the most recent dose.  Someone age 69 at their first dose and 70 at their second will now be counted in the 70-79 group for both doses, resulting in a decrease in the 60-69 first dose number. 

All vaccine administration details for the province, including first and second doses, can be found at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness.

Second Doses Available to 50+

All residents 12+ can receive their first dose and second dose vaccinations are open to residents 50+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before April 15.  Individuals diagnosed with or being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will receive a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose. 

Second doses are also available in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District to all residents 18+, based on the product’s recommended interval from their first dose.

Eligibility to book for second doses is based on age or date of first dose.  Residents who meet at least one of these criteria are eligible for their second dose.  

When all persons 12 and older become eligible to receive their second doses starting June 24, vaccinations will be provided based on the manufacturer interval.  For Moderna, this is 28 days after first dose.  For Pfizer, this is 21 days after first dose.  Note that residents may receive their second doses up to four months following their first dose but it’s highly recommended that you receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible.  

A limited number of first doses of AstraZeneca have been administered since May 5 to those individuals who have contraindication for mRNA vaccines.  If you received AstraZeneca as recommended by your health care provider after May 5, arrangements will be made to administer your second dose based on current, recommended intervals.

Saskatchewan is expecting 74,880 doses of Pfizer and 89,880 doses of Moderna this week.

Remember that while one dose of COVID-19 vaccine provides good protection against transmission, two doses are required for optimal protection, particularly against the Delta variant.  Please receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible and maintain all public health measures until at least two weeks after your second dose.

Vaccination appointments can be booked through the Saskatchewan Health Authority online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 or by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).

A map of participating pharmacies across the province is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies.  This online tool includes links to pharmacy booking websites and provides details on the vaccine brand being offered at each location.

For street addresses and hours of operation for drive-thru and walk-in clinics, see www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vax.

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.  If you do not know the date of your first dose or have misplaced the wallet card provided at the time of your first dose, 1-833-SaskVax can provide you with that date, or check your Immunization History on your MySaskHealthRecord account.

There may be clinic options outside your community and residents are encouraged to consider those alternate locations for immunization.  Additional stops should be avoided if possible when travelling to another community for an appointment.  More clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received.

During your second-dose appointment, the clinic or pharmacy will validate the timing and brand of your first dose to ensure you are receiving your second dose within the recommended timeframe.  The type of vaccine available at each location will be advertised.  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Daily COVID-19 Statistics

There are 47 new cases of COVID-19 to report in Saskatchewan on June 15, bringing the provincial total to 48,043 cases. 

The new cases are located in the following zones: Far North West, 2; Far North East, 1; North West, 6; North Central, 3; North East, 1; Saskatoon, 12; Central West, 3; Central East, 2; Regina, 14; South Central, 1; and South East, 1.  One case is pending residence information.

Four news deaths were reported today.  One death was reported in the 80+ age group in the North Central Zone, one death was reported in the 70 to 79 age group in the North East zone, one death was reported in the 60 to 69 age group in Saskatoon, and one death was reported in the 50 to 59 age group in the South East zone.

Recoveries total 46,761 and 722 cases are considered active.

There are 97 people in hospital.  Eighty-two people are receiving inpatient care: North West, 10; North Central, 8; North East, 1; Saskatoon, 29; Central East, 5; Regina, 23; South West, 2; South Central, 2; and South East; 2.  Fifteen people are in intensive care: North West, 1; North Central, 2; Saskatoon, 6; Central East, 1; Regina, 4; and South West, 1. 

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 case number is 70 (5.7 per 100,000).  This is the lowest seven-day average since November 1, 2020.  A chart comparing today’s average to data collected over the past several months is available at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness/covid-19/seven-day-average-of-new-covid-cases.

There were 1,478 COVID-19 tests processed in Saskatchewan on June 14, 2021.

To date, 891,190 COVID-19 tests have been processed in Saskatchewan.  As of June 13, 2021, when other provincial and national numbers were available, Saskatchewan’s per capita rate was 750,659 tests performed per million population.  The national rate was 941,593.

As of June 14, 11,750 variants of concern have been identified by screening in Saskatchewan, reported in the following zones: Far North West, 286; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 79; North West, 752; North Central, 590; North East, 77; Saskatoon, 2,025; Central West, 124; Central East, 629; Regina, 4,740; South West, 397; South Central, 869; and South East, 1,113.  There are 68 screened VOCs with residence pending.

New lineage results were reported for 239 Variants of Concern today.  Of the 6,438 VOCs with lineages identified by whole genome sequencing in Saskatchewan, 6,130 are Alpha (B.1.1.7), 231 are Gamma (P.1), 67 are Delta (B.1.617.2) and 10 are Beta (B.1.351).

Confirmed variant of concern cases may appear in both columns on the website, depending on testing for that case.  Adding the cases identified by screening and those that have received whole genome sequencing may result in double-counting individual cases.

Further statistics on the total number of cases among health care workers, breakdowns of total cases by source of infection, age, sex and region, total tests to date, per capita testing rate and current numbers of confirmed variants of concern can be found at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-cases.

It may not be allergies or a cold.  Get tested for COVID-19.

Fever? Cough and headache? Fatigued or experiencing shortness of breath?  Do not “tough it out” or assume it’s allergies.  Stay home and seek a COVID-19 test.  Testing remains one of the most important tools to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in your community.  Even if you have been recently vaccinated, it can take up to three weeks for your immune system to respond.  Vaccines are not a cure preventing all possible transmission and you remain at risk of contracting COVID-19 during that time. 

COVID-19 testing is available to all residents.  You can still receive a referral for COVID-19 testing through HealthLine 811 or a health care provider, and drive-thru testing sites are available without a referral seven days a week in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.  Information on symptoms to watch for and how to get tested is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-testing.

General COVID-19 Information

General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Know your risk.  Keep yourself and others safe www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/about-covid-19/know-your-risk.

COVID-19 Update For June 14: 903,442 Vaccines Administered, 55 New Cases, 89 Recoveries, One New Death

If just one per cent of Saskatchewan adults get their first COVID-19 vaccine shot in the next six days, the province will begin Step Three of its Re-Opening Roadmap on July 11.

Currently, 69 per cent of those 18 and older have now received their first dose.

If just three per cent of eligible Saskatchewan residents get their first COVID-19 vaccine shot in the next six days, the province will also lift all remaining public health restrictions on July 11.

Currently, 67 per cent of those 12 and older have now received their first dose. 

Vaccines Reported

An additional 9,928 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 903,442.

The 9,928 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 21; Far North Central, 10; Far North East, 25; North West, 1,026; North Central, 690; North East, 136; Saskatoon, 3,737; Central West, 93; Central East, 664; Regina, 2,546; South West, 59; South Central, 182; and South East, 456.  There were  283 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Seventy-nine per cent of those over the age of 40 have received their first dose.  Seventy-three per cent of those 30+ have received their first dose.  Sixty-nine per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose, while sixty-seven per cent of those 12+ have also received their first dose.

Note: Age is calculated on the date of the most recent dose.  Someone age 69 at their first dose and 70 at their second will now be counted in the 70-79 group for both doses, resulting in a decrease in the 60-69 first dose number. 

All vaccine administration details for the province, including first and second doses, can be found at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness.

Second Doses Available to 50+

All residents 12+ can receive their first dose and second dose vaccinations are open to residents 50+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before April 15.  Individuals diagnosed with or being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will receive a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose. 

Second doses are also available in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District to all residents 18+, based on the product’s recommended interval from their first dose.

Eligibility to book for second doses is based on age or date of first dose.  Residents who meet at least one of these criteria are eligible for their second dose.  

When all persons 12 and older become eligible to receive their second doses starting June 24, vaccinations will be provided based on the manufacturer interval.  For Moderna, this is 28 days after first dose.  For Pfizer, this is 21 days after first dose.  Note that residents may receive their second doses up to four months following their first dose but it’s highly recommended that you receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible.  

A limited number of first doses of AstraZeneca have been administered since May 5 to those individuals who have contraindication for mRNA vaccines.  If you received AstraZeneca as recommended by your health care provider after May 5, arrangements will be made to administer your second dose based on current, recommended intervals.

Remember that while one dose of COVID-19 vaccine provides good protection against transmission, two doses are required for optimal protection, particularly against the Delta variant.  Please receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible and maintain all public health measures until at least two weeks after your second dose.

Vaccination appointments can be booked through the Saskatchewan Health Authority online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 or by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).

A map of participating pharmacies across the province is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies.  This online tool includes links to pharmacy booking websites and provides details on the vaccine brand being offered at each location.

For street addresses and hours of operation for drive-thru and walk-in clinics, see www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vax.

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.  If you do not know the date of your first dose or have misplaced the wallet card provided at the time of your first dose, 1-833-SaskVax can provide you with that date, or check your Immunization History on your MySaskHealthRecord account.

There may be clinic options outside your community and residents are encouraged to consider those alternate locations for immunization.  Additional stops should be avoided if possible when travelling to another community for an appointment.  More clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received.

During your second-dose appointment, the clinic or pharmacy will validate the timing and brand of your first dose to ensure you are receiving your second dose within the recommended timeframe.  The type of vaccine available at each location will be advertised.  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Daily COVID-19 Statistics

There are 55 new cases of COVID-19 to report in Saskatchewan on June 14, bringing the provincial total to 47,996 cases. 

The new cases are located in the following zones: Far North West, 1; Far North East, 1; North West, 4; North Central, 2; Saskatoon, 23; Central West, 3; Central East, 3; Regina, 12; South West, 2; South Central, 3; and South East, 1.  One case with pending residence information was assigned to the North West zone.

One new death is being reported today in the 80+ age group from the Saskatoon zone. 

Recoveries total 46,666 and 774 cases are considered active.

There are 95 people in hospital. Seventy-six people are receiving inpatient care: North West, 10; North Central, 6; Saskatoon, 30; Central East, 4; Regina, 21; South West, 2; South Central, 1; and South East; 2.  Nineteen people are in intensive care: North West, 2; North Central, 3; Saskatoon, 6; Central East, 1; Regina, 6; and South West, 1. 

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 case number is 76 (6.2 per 100,000).  This is the lowest seven-day average since November 4, 2020.  A chart comparing today’s average to data collected over the past several months is available at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness/covid-19/seven-day-average-of-new-covid-cases.

There were 1,691 COVID-19 tests processed in Saskatchewan on June 13, 2021.

To date, 889,712 COVID-19 tests have been processed in Saskatchewan.  As of June 12, 2021, when other provincial and national numbers were available, Saskatchewan’s per capita rate was 749,225 tests performed per million population.  The national rate was 937,963.

As of June 13, 11,726 variants of concern have been identified by screening in Saskatchewan, reported in the following zones: Far North West, 286; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 79; North West, 747; North Central, 586; North East, 77; Saskatoon, 2,019; Central West, 121; Central East, 628; Regina, 4,739; South West, 396; South Central, 867; and South East, 1,113.  There are 67 screened VOCs with residence pending.

No new lineage results were reported for Variants of Concern today.  Of the 6,199 VOCs with lineages identified by whole genome sequencing in Saskatchewan, 5,932 are Alpha (B.1.1.7), 208 are Gamma (P.1), 49 are Delta (B.1.617.2) and 10 are Beta (B.1.351).

Confirmed variant of concern cases may appear in both columns on the website, depending on testing for that case.  Adding the cases identified by screening and those that have received whole genome sequencing may result in double-counting individual cases.

Further statistics on the total number of cases among health care workers, breakdowns of total cases by source of infection, age, sex and region, total tests to date, per capita testing rate and current numbers of confirmed variants of concern can be found at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-cases.

It may not be allergies or a cold.  Get tested for COVID-19.

Fever? Cough and headache? Fatigued or experiencing shortness of breath?  Do not “tough it out” or assume it’s allergies.  Stay home and seek a COVID-19 test.  Testing remains one of the most important tools to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in your community.  Even if you have been recently vaccinated, it can take up to three weeks for your immune system to respond.  Vaccines are not a cure preventing all possible transmission and you remain at risk of contracting COVID-19 during that time. 

COVID-19 testing is available to all residents.  You can still receive a referral for COVID-19 testing through HealthLine 811 or a health care provider, and drive-thru testing sites are available without a referral seven days a week in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.  Information on symptoms to watch for and how to get tested is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-testing.

General COVID-19 Information

General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Know your risk.  Keep yourself and others safe www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/about-covid-19/know-your-risk.

Heinrich (Ubell), PAULINE FRANCES

In the early hours of May 29, 2021 Polly – surrounded by her children – peacefully passed in to eternity.

We’re sure she’s already walked in to the party, hugged everyone at least once and passed a plate of food (for the second time!) to all.

Polly was born the 6th of 9 children to Justinus Ubell and Mary Wagner in the Kerrobert Hospital on March 15, 1937.

Raised on a farm in the Luseland area, and speaking only German until she started school, she was always very connected with her siblings.

In 1958 she moved to Craik to work as a nurse’s aide and soon after, Davidson – which proved to seal her fate as a resident of the community and later (in ‘retirement’) the town. Shortly after arriving in Davidson she met her future husband Ray and they were married 6 months later (October 21, 1959).

The union stood strong for 55 years – in part for sure because he loved her Flapper Pie – until his passing (2015).

She continued to work as a nurse’s aide off and on throughout her married life until retirement in 2000. Polly made this community her home and her heart in so many ways – by contributing endless baking for sales at the Davidson Seniors Centre, Catholic Women’s League or her parish, caring with a thoughtful card or phone call, providing whatever you needed when camping (at Craven it’s said her 1968 14 foot Scamper camper must have been the ‘basement model’ as she seemed to have anything you needed in that thing), and just adding to the caring atmosphere of this community.

It has been said that no one will know what time of year we are
in without Polly’s seasonal decorations.

She was not fond of being on the water or boating and she may not have had a passion for the family fishing trips, but would never be left behind. She did enjoy the time alone and could be found sweeping the wood steps of the cabin and eating sunflower seeds when we returned.

When not in her garden, yard or kitchen, Polly could be found at the card table adding up your points before you’d laid your last card or, barring that, she’d be out in a field trucking grain, providing a tailgate meal (turkey and all the fixings, never less), or both – at the same time.

Polly wanted everyone together, all the time. Nothing brought her more satisfaction and pleasure than to see her family greeting each other with a hearty hug.

Polly is survived by her four children – Grace (Ian; and their children Adrian [Caitlin, great grandson Tristan], Nicole [Dave], and Erik), Arlene (Doug), Nonie, Mike (Susanna; and their children Geena, Jacob and Reggie).

Polly is also survived by sister Rose and brothers Adolph and George. Predeceased by an infant daughter – Betty Catherine (1962) and her husband, Raymond Deidrich (2015). She is also predeceased by sister Wilma and brothers Jacob, Joseph, Justinus Jr., William.

Wherever she is, we know she’s not joined the party empty handed – likely she’s providing the cinnamon buns and is dancing to Charley Pride. Don’t ask her to turn down the volume – she won’t.

Hanson’s Funeral Home of Davidson in care of arrangements.

COVID-19 Update For June 13: 893,514 Vaccines Administered, 65 New Cases, 131 Recoveries, No New Deaths

Just one per cent more of Saskatchewan adults need to get their first COVID-19 vaccine shot in the coming week in order for the province to begin Step Three – the final phase of its Reopening Roadmap – on July 11.

There are 69 per cent of those 18 and older and 67 per cent of those 12 and older have now received their first dose. 

Vaccines Reported

An additional 14,849 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 893,514.

The 14,849 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 188; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 97; North West, 712; North Central, 1,255; North East, 474; Saskatoon, 3,206; Central West, 356; Central East, 1,696; Regina, 3,464; South West, 464; South Central, 1,587; and South East, 1,065. There were  284 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Seventy-nine per cent of those over the age of 40 have received their first dose. Seventy-three per cent of those 30+ have received their first dose. Sixty-nine per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose, while sixty-seven per cent of those 12+ have also received their first dose.

Note: Age is calculated on the date of the most recent dose.  Someone age 69 at their first dose and 70 at their second will now be counted in the 70-79 group for both doses, resulting in a decrease in the 60-69 first dose number. 

All vaccine administration details for the province, including first and second doses, can be found at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness.

Saskatchewan has been allocated 89,880 Moderna doses for the week of June 14 and 130,620 Moderna doses for the week of June 21.

Second Doses Available to 50+ Starting Monday, June 14

Starting Monday, June 14, all residents 12+ can receive their first dose and second dose vaccinations are open to residents 50+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before April 15.  Individuals diagnosed with or being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will receive a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose. 

Second doses will also be available in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District to all residents 18+, based on the product’s recommended interval from their first dose.

Eligibility to book for second doses is based on age or date of first dose.  Residents who meet at least one of these criteria are eligible for their second dose.  

When all persons 12 and older become eligible to receive their second doses starting June 24, vaccinations will be provided based on the manufacturer interval.  For Moderna, this is 28 days after first dose.  For Pfizer, this is 21 days after first dose.  Note that residents may receive their second doses up to four months following their first dose but it’s highly recommended that you receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible.  

A limited number of first doses of AstraZeneca have been administered since May 5 to those individuals who have contraindication for mRNA vaccines.  If you received AstraZeneca as recommended by your health care provider after May 5, arrangements will be made to administer your second dose based on current, recommended intervals.

Vaccination appointments can be booked through the Saskatchewan Health Authority online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 or by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).

A map of participating pharmacies across the province is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies.  This online tool includes links to pharmacy booking websites and provides details on the vaccine brand being offered at each location.

For street addresses and hours of operation for drive-thru and walk-in clinics, see www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vax.

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.  If you do not know the date of your first dose or have misplaced the wallet card provided at the time of your first dose, 1-833-SaskVax can provide you with that date, or check your Immunization History on your MySaskHealthRecord account.

There may be clinic options outside your community and residents are encouraged to consider those alternate locations for immunization.  Additional stops should be avoided if possible when travelling to another community for an appointment.  More clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received.

During your second-dose appointment, the clinic or pharmacy will validate the timing and brand of your first dose to ensure you are receiving your second dose within the recommended timeframe.  The type of vaccine available at each location will be advertised.  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Daily COVID-19 Statistics

There are 65 new cases of COVID-19 to report in Saskatchewan on June 13, bringing the provincial total to 47,941 cases. 

The new cases are located in the following zones: Far North West, 4; Far North East, 1; North West, 4; North Central, 4; Saskatoon, 14; Regina, 11; South West, 4; South Central, 14; and South East, 9. One case was reassigned to the North Central zone, and one case tested out of province was added to the North Central Zone.

No new deaths were reported today. 

Recoveries total 46,577 and 809 cases are considered active. 

There are 95 people in hospital. Seventy-five people are receiving inpatient care: North West, 11; North Central, 5; Saskatoon, 27; Central East, 3; Regina, 24; South West, 2; South Central, 1; and South East; 2.  Twenty people are in intensive care: North West, 2; North Central, 3; Saskatoon, 6; Central East, 1; Regina, 7; and South West, 1. 

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 case number is 78 (6.4 per 100,000).  A chart comparing today’s average to data collected over the past few months is available at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness/covid-19/seven-day-average-of-new-covid-cases.

There were 1,553 COVID-19 tests processed in Saskatchewan on June 12, 2021.

To date, 888,021 COVID-19 tests have been processed in Saskatchewan. As of June 11, 2021, when other provincial and national numbers were available, Saskatchewan’s per capita rate was 747,907 tests performed per million population.  The national rate was 937,746.

The Ministry of Health is now reporting COVID-19 variants of concern according to the latest designations approved by the World Health Organization and aligns with the designations being used by the Public Health Agency of Canada. 

As of June 12, 11,704 variants of concern have been identified by screening in Saskatchewan, reported in the following zones: Far North West, 283; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 79; North West, 745; North Central, 586; North East, 77; Saskatoon, 2,012; Central West, 121; Central East, 626; Regina, 4,737; South West, 396; South Central, 862; and South East, 1,112.  There are 67 screened VOCs with residence pending.

No new lineage results were reported for Variants of Concern today.  Of the 6,199 VOCs with lineages identified by whole genome sequencing in Saskatchewan, 5,932 are Alpha (B.1.1.7), 208 are Gamma (P.1), 49 are Delta (B.1.617.2) and 10 are Beta (B.1.351).

Confirmed variant of concern cases may appear in both columns on the website, depending on testing for that case.  Adding the cases identified by screening and those that have received whole genome sequencing may result in double-counting individual cases.

Further statistics on the total number of cases among health care workers, breakdowns of total cases by source of infection, age, sex and region, total tests to date, per capita testing rate and current numbers of confirmed variants of concern can be found at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-cases.

It may not be allergies or a spring cold.  Get tested for COVID-19.

Fever? Cough and headache? Fatigued or experiencing shortness of breath?  Do not “tough it out” or assume it’s spring allergies.  Stay home and seek a COVID-19 test.  Testing remains one of the most important tools to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in your community.  Even if you have been recently vaccinated, it can take up to three weeks for your immune system to respond.  Vaccines are not a cure preventing all possible transmission and you remain at risk of contracting COVID-19 during that time. 

COVID-19 testing is available to all residents.  You can still receive a referral for COVID-19 testing through HealthLine 811 or a health care provider, and drive-thru testing sites are available without a referral seven days a week in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.  Information on symptoms to watch for and how to get tested is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-testing.

General COVID-19 Information

General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Know your risk.  Keep yourself and others safe www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/about-covid-19/know-your-risk.


COVID-19 Update For June 12: 878,665 Vaccines Administered, 106 New Cases, 135 Recoveries, One New Death

Vaccines Reported

An additional 18,014 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 878,665. 

The 18,014 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 277; Far North Central, 31; Far North East, 409; North West, 1,094; North Central, 1,323; North East, 483; Saskatoon, 5,063 Central West, 626; Central East, 1,544; Regina, 3,994; South West, 994; South Central, 1,014; and South East, 790.  There were 372 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Seventy-nine per cent of those over the age of 40 have received their first dose.  Seventy-three per cent of those 30+ have received their first dose.  Sixty-eight per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose, while sixty-six per cent of those 12+ have also received their first dose.

Note: Age is calculated on the date of the most recent dose.  Someone age 69 at their first dose and 70 at their second will now be counted in the 70-79 group for both doses, resulting in a decrease in the 60-69 first dose number. 

All vaccine administration details for the province, including first and second doses, can be found at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness.

Saskatchewan has been allocated 89,880 Moderna doses for the week of June 14 and 130,620 Moderna doses for the week of June 21.

Second Dose Schedule Updated

By June 24, every eligible Saskatchewan resident age 12 and older will be able to receive their second vaccine shot, depending on the length of time that has passed since their first shot.

With the increased Moderna deliveries expected, Saskatchewan is able to accelerate the second dose schedule for all residents with updates scheduled Mondays and Thursdays each week until all remaining populations are eligible.  Timelines may change due to vaccine availability. 

All residents 12+ can receive their first dose and second dose vaccinations are open to residents 55+ or anyone who received their first dose on or before April 7.  Individuals diagnosed with or being treated for cancer and those who have received solid organ transplants will receive a letter of eligibility in the mail that will allow them priority access to a second dose. 

Starting Monday, second doses will be available in the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District to all residents 18+, based on the product’s recommended interval from their first dose.

Eligibility to book for second doses is based on age or date of first dose.  Residents who meet at least one of these criteria are eligible for their second dose.  

When all persons 12 and older become eligible to receive their second doses starting June 24, vaccinations will be provided based on the manufacturer interval.  For Moderna, this is 28 days after first dose.  For Pfizer, this is 21 days after first dose.  Note that residents may receive their second doses up to four months following their first dose but it’s highly recommended that you receive your second dose as soon as you are eligible.  

A limited number of first doses of AstraZeneca have been administered since May 5 to those individuals who have contraindication for mRNA vaccines.  If you received AstraZeneca as recommended by your health care provider after May 5, arrangements will be made to administer your second dose based on current, recommended intervals.

Vaccination appointments can be booked through the Saskatchewan Health Authority online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 or by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).

A map of participating pharmacies across the province is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-pharmacies.  This online tool includes links to pharmacy booking websites and provides details on the vaccine brand being offered at each location.

For street addresses and hours of operation for drive-thru and walk-in clinics, see www.saskatchewan.ca/drive-thru-vax.

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.  If you do not know the date of your first dose or have misplaced the wallet card provided at the time of your first dose, 1-833-SaskVax can provide you with that date, or check your Immunization History on your MySaskHealthRecord account.

There may be clinic options outside your community and residents are encouraged to consider those alternate locations for immunization.  Additional stops should be avoided if possible when travelling to another community for an appointment.  More clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received.

During your second-dose appointment, the clinic or pharmacy will validate the timing and brand of your first dose to ensure you are receiving your second dose within the recommended timeframe.  The type of vaccine available at each location will be advertised.  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Daily COVID-19 Statistics

There are 106 new cases of COVID-19 to report in Saskatchewan on June 12, bringing the provincial total to 47,875 cases. 

The new cases are located in the following zones: Far North West, 3; Far North East, 1; North West, 19; North Central, 17; North East, 2; Saskatoon, 29; Central West, 5; Central East, 3; Regina,10; South West, 3; South Central, 8; and South East, 4.  Two cases are pending residence information.  

Five cases tested out of province were added: Far North East, 4; and one case with pending resident information. 

One new death is being reported today in the 80+ age group from the North West zone. 

Recoveries total 46,446 and 874 cases are considered active. 

There are 96 people in hospital. Seventy-nine people are receiving inpatient care: North West, 12; North Central, 5; Saskatoon, 29; Central East, 3; Regina, 26; South West, 1; South Central, 2; and South East; 2.  Seventeen people are in intensive care: North West, 1; North Central, 4; Saskatoon, 5; Central East, 1; Regina, 5; and South West, 1.  The Manitoba resident receiving COVID-19 care in Saskatchewan was repatriated June 11.

The seven-day average of new COVID-19 case number is 79 (6.5 per 100,000).  A chart comparing today’s average to data collected over the past few months is available at https://dashboard.saskatchewan.ca/health-wellness/covid-19/seven-day-average-of-new-covid-cases.

There were 2,159 COVID-19 tests processed in Saskatchewan on June 11, 2021.

To date, 886,468 COVID-19 tests have been processed in Saskatchewan.  As of June 10, 2021, when other provincial and national numbers were available, Saskatchewan’s per capita rate was 746,075 tests performed per million population.  The national rate was 936,237.

The Ministry of Health is now reporting COVID-19 variants of concern according to the latest designations approved by the World Health Organization and aligns with the designations being used by the Public Health Agency of Canada.  

As of June 11, 11,664 variants of concern have been identified by screening in Saskatchewan, reported in the following zones: Far North West, 283; Far North Central, 1; Far North East, 78; North West, 741; North Central, 585; North East, 77; Saskatoon, 2,003; Central West, 121; Central East, 626; Regina, 4,731; South West, 393; South Central, 850; and South East, 1,108.  There are 67 screened VOCs with residence pending.

No new lineage results were reported for Variants of Concern today.  Of the 6,199 VOCs with lineages identified by whole genome sequencing in Saskatchewan, 5,932 are Alpha (B.1.1.7), 208 are Gamma (P.1), 49 are Delta (B.1.617.2) and 10 are Beta (B.1.351).

Confirmed variant of concern cases may appear in both columns on the website, depending on testing for that case.  Adding the cases identified by screening and those that have received whole genome sequencing may result in double-counting individual cases.

Further statistics on the total number of cases among health care workers, breakdowns of total cases by source of infection, age, sex and region, total tests to date, per capita testing rate and current numbers of confirmed variants of concern can be found at http://www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-cases.

It may not be allergies or a spring cold.  Get tested for COVID-19.

Fever? Cough and headache? Fatigued or experiencing shortness of breath?  Do not “tough it out” or assume it’s spring allergies.  Stay home and seek a COVID-19 test.  Testing remains one of the most important tools to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in your community.  Even if you have been recently vaccinated, it can take up to three weeks for your immune system to respond.  Vaccines are not a cure preventing all possible transmission and you remain at risk of contracting COVID-19 during that time. 

COVID-19 testing is available to all residents.  You can still receive a referral for COVID-19 testing through HealthLine 811 or a health care provider, and drive-thru testing sites are available without a referral seven days a week in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.  Information on symptoms to watch for and how to get tested is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-testing.

General COVID-19 Information

General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Know your risk.  Keep yourself and others safe www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/about-covid-19/know-your-risk.

The Davidson Leader, Davidson, Saskatchewan