Quebec okays second COVID-19 vaccine doses for those with past positive test

MONTREAL -- Quebec announced Monday that those who want to travel and have had a positive COVID-19 test and first vaccine can now get a second jab.

The Ministry of Health and Social Services said in a news release that the decision is based on a recommendation from Quebec's immunization committee (CIQ), and is particularly aimed at those who want to travel.

"The CIQ now recommends a second dose for people with a history of COVID-19 who are planning to travel and need to meet the requirement for a double vaccination," the release reads.

Those formerly COVID-19 positive people wanting their second dose can get a vaccination at a mass vaccination centre, a pharmacy or a business without having to provide any justification.

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"Available information is reassuring about the administration of two doses in people with a history of infection," the ministry said. "No major issues have been identified in relation to the administration of a second dose."

The ministry added that those who don't want to travel and receive the proof of double vaccination are considered sufficiently protected with a history of COVID-19 infection and a single dose.

The vaccine passport will identify all adequately protected people, including those who have tested positive in the past.  

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  A man waits to receive a COVID-19 vaccination shot at a clinic in Montreal, Sunday, March 7, 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues in Canada and around the world. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes