B.C. crosses grim milestone of 1,000 COVID-19 deaths; 1,475 cases reported today

British Columbia's top doctor says the first dose of a vaccine for COVID-19 gives "amazing" immunity, so the government's decision to allow for a 35-day gap before the second dose is administered is rooted in science.

Dr. Bonnie Henry's statements come as B.C. recorded a grim milestone Monday, reaching 1,000 COVID-19 related deaths.

She says the decision to delay the second shot is about maximizing the vaccines' distribution, while balancing the supply and making sure the province has a safe and effective immunization program.

Dr. Henry says the first dose primes the immune system while the second shot gives it a boost and waiting between jabs allows the body to build up that immunity.

B.C. recorded 22 more deaths over a three-day period for toll of 1,010, while there were 1,475 new infections over the same period.

The number of active cases in B.C. has dipped to 5,220 and nearly 60,000 people had been vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Sunday.