One death and 205 new cases of COVID-19 were reported on Thursday, along with 244 recoveries. That brings the total number of active cases in Saskatchewan to 2,408.

The one individual who had tested positive for COVID-19 and died was in the 80-plus age group from the northwest.

Of the new cases, 13 are in the south-central zone, 73 in Regina, 32 in Saskatoon, 24 in the southeast, 16 in the far northwest, 11 in the northwest, 11 in the central-east, nine in the southwest, four in the north-central zone, three in the northeast, two in the central-west, and one in the far northeast. Six new cases are pending resident information.

186 people are in hospital with 148 receiving inpatient care, and 38 in intensive care.

79 cases are considered active in the sub-region 'south-central 2' which is made up of Moose Jaw and the surrounding area.

Graduation Ceremonies

The province also updated guidelines in regards to graduations, saying outdoor ceremonies are limited to 30 guests - assuming two guests per graduate - for a total of 45 graduates and guests. Five additional teachers/support staff are also allowed.

Virtual grads are permitted with no more than 30 graduates attending in-person, and all guests must attend virtually.

Guidelines for graduations will be re-evaluated on May 17.

All other public health measures must be followed, including maintaining a minimum of two metres of physical distancing between household groups. No food or beverages are permitted.

The guidance for graduations for the month of June will be re-evaluated on May 17, 2021. Guidance will be reviewed based on the COVID-19 situation in the province, including positive cases and the rates of immunization. Planned events and activities must abide by the guidance in place at the time of the event/activity.

Vaccination Booking System Opening to Ages 40+ Friday

Effective 8 a.m. tomorrow, eligibility in the provincial age-based immunization program moves to age 40 This applies to all immunization clinics: booked appointments, drive-thru/walk-in, pharmacies and mobile clinics.

Once COVID-19 vaccine eligibility has been opened to all residents ages 40 and over, remaining prioritized front-line workers (including firefighters, educational staff working with students, correctional staff and border security officers and front-line health care workers with direct patient contact) will also become eligible.  Notice of eligibility is being provided to regulatory bodies and associations.  To confirm that you are included in this front-line worker category, call 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829) or email covid19@health.gov.sk.ca.

Please remember that demand for appointments outweighs current available supply.  Additional clinics will be added as new vaccine shipments are received.

Appointments can be made online at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19.  People who do not have a cell phone or email account, need assistance in booking, or are providing documentation for priority eligibility status must book by calling 1-833-SaskVax (1-833-727-5829).  Additional information on how to book your appointment is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-vaccine-booking.

Please do not call until you are eligible to book your vaccination appointment.

Individuals who experience a severe or unusual reaction after getting a COVID-19 vaccination can report it by calling 811.  Anyone experiencing a severe reaction such as difficulty breathing should call 911.  Any adverse event that may be related to a vaccination is reported in order to continuously monitor the safety of vaccines. 

Vaccines Reported

An additional 6,218 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Saskatchewan, bringing the total number of vaccines administered in the province to 421,981. 

The 6,218 doses of COVID-19 vaccine reported today were administered to residents living in the following zones: Far North West, 130; Far North Central, 2; Far North East, 112; North West, 530; North Central, 487; North East, 238; Saskatoon, 1,605; Central West, 220; Central East, 411; Regina, 1,313; South West, 190; South Central, 70; and South East, 592.  There were 318 doses administered with zone of residence pending.

Over eighty per cent of Saskatchewan residents over age 60 have received their first dose.  Sixty per cent of those 40+ have received their first dose.  Forty per cent of those 18+ have received their first dose.