Manitoba-ND vaccination program reaches milestone

Officials say more than 2,500 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been issued to Manitoba truck drivers in North Dakota as part of the Essential Worker Cross-Border Vaccination Initiative.

That initiative began in April…allowing Manitoba-based truck drivers hauling goods to and from the U-S to schedule immunizations in Pembina and Drayton during their routine trips.

So far, Manitoba truckers have received 2,523 doses in North Dakota, with 1,719 getting a first dose … and 804 receiving a second dose.

Gov. Doug Burgum says North Dakota is picking up the cost of nurses and EMTs…while the federal government supplies the vaccine and reimburses administration costs.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister said, based on demand, the partnership has been extended through July.